Another set of Christmas and Winter themed items has launched in CityVille's store this week, proving that there's no better way to deck your city's virtual halls than with buildings covered in snow and lights (and a little bit of snow on the ground never hurt either). We've already brought you a look at the first wave of items in this "Winter" theme, but now there's a Mystery Crate, along with new homes and businesses to help flesh out the theme.
First things first, you can now purchase a blanket of snow to cover your city's grassy areas. This costs just 500 coins to do, and while it only applies to the ground, you'll see every square (including trees that you've yet to chop down) covered in snow, regardless of whether you've expanded into them. To be clear, last year we were given an option to turn on snow and lights on our buildings as well, but that hasn't been launched as of this writing. Also, your beach will stay sandy, and isn't affected by the snow cover.
Here's a look at the rest of the newly released items:
Cookie Condos
Costs: 60 City Cash
Population: 1850 - 3650
Rent: 326 coins every day
Gingerbread House
Costs: 40 City Cash
Population: 600 - 1200
Rent: 197 coins every four hours
Sugar Plum Palace
Costs: 30 City Cash
Population: 300 - 600
Rent: 19 coins every five minutes
Frozen Water Mill (Community Building)
Costs: 65 City Cash
Allows: Raises max population cap by 3,750 citizens
Holiday Tree Lot
Costs: 40 City Cash
Requires: 305 Goods
Earnings: 1648 coins
In addition to these items, you can also pick up a Winter Mystery Crate for 40 City Cash. For each crate you purchase, you'll have a chance of winning the Holiday Tree Lot, Gingerbread House, Frozen Water Mill or another new building: Ginger Tower. This tower made of gingerbread serves as a home, offering your town 2,500 - 4,500 citizens, and is the rarest prize in the box. If history tells us anything, this will likely be released as a standalone item for purchase in the store at a later date, but at a higher price. So, if you want to get it for cheap, feel free to gamble and purchase one of these crates, hoping to get lucky.
Also, if you happen to be a veteran player that still has last year's Holiday Tree Lot, keep in mind that this new business is just that - a business. It's a different item than last year's decoration, although it does look incredibly similar.
All of these items have been given a "limited time" marking in the store, but I'd be willing to wager that we won't see them actually leave the store for quite some time. As this theme is given more items and the holidays truly start to kick off in CityVille, we'll make sure to let you know.
Check out the rest of our Holiday 2011 coverage right here.
Will you change your town's land to snow, or are you still celebrating fall in your game? What do you think of these new Winter / Christmas themed items?
Thứ Ba, 13 tháng 3, 2012
Cafe World Cater the Parade Catering Order: Everything you need to know
With less than four days to complete the Fall Feast event in Cafe World, you might not think it's the best time to start another Catering Order in your game. However, this newest Catering Order is themed to the event, and sees you catering the Thanksgiving Day Parade. If you can pull off this entire catering order with a three star rating, you'll earn more Invites (contest entries for Cafe Cash) and a Lightning Stove. To be clear, you won't earn any additional recipes, so if that's your major incentive for doing Catering Orders, you can feel free to skip this one entirely.
For the cooking tasks, you'll need to serve Caramelized Flatbread (an eight-hour dish) 300 times, Cream Corn Pudding (a 12-hour dish) 150 times and Pumpkin Gingerbread (a six-hour dish) 80 times. You'll be able to bring up to 12 of your friends into this order with you, for a total catering crew of 13 people.
In addition to cooking these dishes, you'll also need to ask for two items from your friends. You'll need to collect 12 Helium Tanks and 16 Ropes, with each of these being earned via individual requests sent to your neighbors.
If you can finish all five of these tasks within three days of starting the catering order, you'll receive the three-star rating, 15 Catering Points, 7,500 Cafe Points, 200,000 coins, an Orange Lightning Stove and 100 invites for the Cafe Cash contest being held in this Fall Feast Event. If you can't finish within three days, but do finish within five, you'll receive two stars, 10 Catering Points, 5,000 Cafe Points and 125,000 coins, and finally, if you finish at any point after the first five days of starting, you'll receive a single star, 5 Catering Points, 3,000 Cafe Points and 75,000 coins.
Due to the timed nature of this Catering Order, you'll need to make sure to get three stars the first time, as you likely won't have time to restart the order if you fail to make it in time. It's possible that Zynga will extend the time limit on this Fall Feast event, but I personally doubt it. If you have any interest in this free Lightning Stove, make sure to pour some extra resources into it this weekend to have a better chance of completing it in time.
What do you think of this Cater the Parade Catering Order? Have you already started working on it in your cafe, or are you not even going to bother since the Fall Feast event is almost over?
For the cooking tasks, you'll need to serve Caramelized Flatbread (an eight-hour dish) 300 times, Cream Corn Pudding (a 12-hour dish) 150 times and Pumpkin Gingerbread (a six-hour dish) 80 times. You'll be able to bring up to 12 of your friends into this order with you, for a total catering crew of 13 people.
In addition to cooking these dishes, you'll also need to ask for two items from your friends. You'll need to collect 12 Helium Tanks and 16 Ropes, with each of these being earned via individual requests sent to your neighbors.
If you can finish all five of these tasks within three days of starting the catering order, you'll receive the three-star rating, 15 Catering Points, 7,500 Cafe Points, 200,000 coins, an Orange Lightning Stove and 100 invites for the Cafe Cash contest being held in this Fall Feast Event. If you can't finish within three days, but do finish within five, you'll receive two stars, 10 Catering Points, 5,000 Cafe Points and 125,000 coins, and finally, if you finish at any point after the first five days of starting, you'll receive a single star, 5 Catering Points, 3,000 Cafe Points and 75,000 coins.
Due to the timed nature of this Catering Order, you'll need to make sure to get three stars the first time, as you likely won't have time to restart the order if you fail to make it in time. It's possible that Zynga will extend the time limit on this Fall Feast event, but I personally doubt it. If you have any interest in this free Lightning Stove, make sure to pour some extra resources into it this weekend to have a better chance of completing it in time.
What do you think of this Cater the Parade Catering Order? Have you already started working on it in your cafe, or are you not even going to bother since the Fall Feast event is almost over?
Empires & Allies Wrath of the Titans: Everything you need to know
Forget everything you know about the threats facing your island(s) in Empires & Allies. A darker and more sinister enemy has emerged, threatening to wipe out the entire world if we don't act quickly to stop it! An army of a million Titan Mechs has started attacking each and every player in the game, and it's up to all of us - that's right, every player in the game - to combine our efforts and put an end to their invasion before they can wipe out all civilized life (in the game, of course) in just 11 days!
This new event is called Wrath of the Titans, and it sees every player working to complete a series of missions to destroy a cumulative pool of Titan Mechs. As of this writing, around 363,000 Mechs remain. This event is split up into eight different sections, or missions, requiring you to collect various items to learn more about the Titans, and to actually fight and defeat Titans themselves.
You'll be tasked with completing each mission individually, or you can unlock the next missions with Empire Points if you'd like to skip ahead. The first goal, for instance, has you gathering 10 Recon Images and 10 Scientific Analyses form your friends, along with actually fighting and defeating a Titan.
A Titan itself has three sections to defeat - two machine gun arms and the core. You can select your theater (Air, Land or Sea), depending on the types and strength of troops you're most comfortable using, and can then go to town on these Mechs, even throwing power-ups at them if you'd like a better chance of survival. You're warned within the game that these are the hardest enemies you've faced in the game to date, so make sure to take these battles seriously when planning your attack. You won't want to needlessly waste troops because you went in unprepared.
If you can complete the eight missions within the 11 day time period, you'll receive three Bat Ray Patrol Boats. These units have 450 Strength Points each, making them a force to be reckoned with in and of themselves - it's just a good thing those are on our side! It's likely that if this event goes over well, we'll see more game-wide events, and we'll make sure to let you know if that does end up being the case.
What do you think of this Wrath of the Titans event? Have you had any success defeating Titan Mechs in your own game, or are they too strong for your current troop lineup?
This new event is called Wrath of the Titans, and it sees every player working to complete a series of missions to destroy a cumulative pool of Titan Mechs. As of this writing, around 363,000 Mechs remain. This event is split up into eight different sections, or missions, requiring you to collect various items to learn more about the Titans, and to actually fight and defeat Titans themselves.
You'll be tasked with completing each mission individually, or you can unlock the next missions with Empire Points if you'd like to skip ahead. The first goal, for instance, has you gathering 10 Recon Images and 10 Scientific Analyses form your friends, along with actually fighting and defeating a Titan.
A Titan itself has three sections to defeat - two machine gun arms and the core. You can select your theater (Air, Land or Sea), depending on the types and strength of troops you're most comfortable using, and can then go to town on these Mechs, even throwing power-ups at them if you'd like a better chance of survival. You're warned within the game that these are the hardest enemies you've faced in the game to date, so make sure to take these battles seriously when planning your attack. You won't want to needlessly waste troops because you went in unprepared.
If you can complete the eight missions within the 11 day time period, you'll receive three Bat Ray Patrol Boats. These units have 450 Strength Points each, making them a force to be reckoned with in and of themselves - it's just a good thing those are on our side! It's likely that if this event goes over well, we'll see more game-wide events, and we'll make sure to let you know if that does end up being the case.
What do you think of this Wrath of the Titans event? Have you had any success defeating Titan Mechs in your own game, or are they too strong for your current troop lineup?
FarmVille: Latest survey hints at fifth farm in tropical Hawaii
Here's something that will probably blow your mind: Winter Wonderland has just barely launched within FarmVille (and only then if you've actually paid for access), and yet we're already seeing rumblings of a potential fifth farm. How can this be possible? Well, there are no confirmed details thus far, but if you access the current survey that shows up underneath your FarmVille gameplay area (the window says "Please let us know how you feel about FarmVille!"), you'll be taken to a survey that asks for your opinions on said tropical farm.
We've seen surveys in the past, before the launch of the three expansion farms in the game - English Countryside, Lighthouse Cove and Winter Wonderland - so it only makes sense that we'd see another survey gauging users' thoughts on a potential fifth farm. To be specific, we're given a hypothetical situation: "FarmVille takes a trip to the tropics!" and are asked to choose between two names for this new farm: FarmVille Hawaiian Paradise or FarmVille Hawaii.
It's interesting that we see such a specific geographical location in the names of this farm, but it's likely that we might see something a big more generic in the final naming. What's really important in this survey, though, is that it continues on to give us a list of different animals that would fit inside an "Ocean Animal Pen" on this farm, and we're asked to rate each animal based on how much we like it. There are sharks, dolphins, whales, turtles, jelly fish, seahorses, seals and even starfish to choose from - almost 20 choices in all, which gives some pretty hefty weight to the idea that this farm probably isn't just an idea, but that it's likely already in development.
Another question gives us a look at potential limited edition item themes that would be released either in association with this farm, or just in celebration of its launch. We see things like Watersports, the Coral Reef and even Gilligan's Island as potential themes, along with a list of expected items that would come in those themes (like gnomes, a luau stage or even dinosaurs).
This is an absolutely huge deal, whether you actively farm or play on all four of the game's current farms or not. As we see the world continue to expand, we see greater potential for Mastery Signs (Tree, Crop and Animal), Sheep and Pig Breeding patterns, Gnomes and Horses and so on being available for players to add to their collections. Sure, it also allows Zynga to make more money by charging Farm Cash for access (or just charging for specific items), but isn't having more variety better than not having enough? I'm personally stoked to learn more about this tropical, fifth farm that's apparently coming to FarmVille, and we'll make sure to let you know as we learn more about its existence / launch.
[Image Credit: Best Vacations]
What about you? Are you excited to think that we might have a fifth farm quickly coming to FarmVille? Do you actively use the four farms you have now (assuming you've already accessed Winter Wonderland), or do you think a fifth farm would just be a waste?
We've seen surveys in the past, before the launch of the three expansion farms in the game - English Countryside, Lighthouse Cove and Winter Wonderland - so it only makes sense that we'd see another survey gauging users' thoughts on a potential fifth farm. To be specific, we're given a hypothetical situation: "FarmVille takes a trip to the tropics!" and are asked to choose between two names for this new farm: FarmVille Hawaiian Paradise or FarmVille Hawaii.
It's interesting that we see such a specific geographical location in the names of this farm, but it's likely that we might see something a big more generic in the final naming. What's really important in this survey, though, is that it continues on to give us a list of different animals that would fit inside an "Ocean Animal Pen" on this farm, and we're asked to rate each animal based on how much we like it. There are sharks, dolphins, whales, turtles, jelly fish, seahorses, seals and even starfish to choose from - almost 20 choices in all, which gives some pretty hefty weight to the idea that this farm probably isn't just an idea, but that it's likely already in development.
Another question gives us a look at potential limited edition item themes that would be released either in association with this farm, or just in celebration of its launch. We see things like Watersports, the Coral Reef and even Gilligan's Island as potential themes, along with a list of expected items that would come in those themes (like gnomes, a luau stage or even dinosaurs).
This is an absolutely huge deal, whether you actively farm or play on all four of the game's current farms or not. As we see the world continue to expand, we see greater potential for Mastery Signs (Tree, Crop and Animal), Sheep and Pig Breeding patterns, Gnomes and Horses and so on being available for players to add to their collections. Sure, it also allows Zynga to make more money by charging Farm Cash for access (or just charging for specific items), but isn't having more variety better than not having enough? I'm personally stoked to learn more about this tropical, fifth farm that's apparently coming to FarmVille, and we'll make sure to let you know as we learn more about its existence / launch.
[Image Credit: Best Vacations]
What about you? Are you excited to think that we might have a fifth farm quickly coming to FarmVille? Do you actively use the four farms you have now (assuming you've already accessed Winter Wonderland), or do you think a fifth farm would just be a waste?
Thứ Hai, 12 tháng 3, 2012
Club Penguin Goodie Bag Giveaway: Free plushies, membership & more
Note: This contest has ended. Congratulations to our winner and thanks for entering! Stay tuned to Games.com and our Games.com Facebook fanpage for more awesome giveaways.
Wow-zow! A free Club Penguin goodie bag? That's right folks, Games.com is giving one lucky winner this bag full of awesome Club Penguin swag. As you can see above, our grand prize winner will win plushies, a notepad, and best of all, a six-month Club Penguin membership card. So whether you're a Club Penguin fan or not, you must admit this is one killer deal.
Before I tell you how to win this goodie bag, let me tell you what exactly is at stake. The free Club Penguin grand prize includes:
One Club Penguin Puffle Plushie
One Club Penguin Squire Plushie
Club Penguin notepad and pen
One 6-Month Club Penguin Membership card ($39.95 value!)
All kinds of in-game items!
Now that you understand what's at stake here, let's talk about how you can enter to win this awesome free Club Penguin grab bag.club penguin free giveaway
How to Enter
Step 1. Click this 'Like' button to share this Club Penguin Contest with your friends:
Step 2. Go to our Facebook fanpage and click 'Like'. This enables you to leave us posts.
Step 3. Leave a post on our Facebook fanpage telling us the following:
What is your game-related New Year's resolution? How are you going about achieving it? What might prevent you from reaching your goal? The more detail the better!
(Example answer: My New Year's resolution is to clean up my FarmVille farm. Currently it looks like a nuclear bomb hit. There are patches of soil, random animals, items, and buildings everywhere. After looking at some of my neighbors' farms, this year I think I'm going to try a new farm design that doesn't look like a junk yard!)
On Monday January 16th, a winner will be chosen. Alexander Armero will reach out to the winner via Facebook or email for their addresses. Sound easy enough? Then what are you waiting for? Enter to win the Club Penguin goodie bag today. Good luck!
Wow-zow! A free Club Penguin goodie bag? That's right folks, Games.com is giving one lucky winner this bag full of awesome Club Penguin swag. As you can see above, our grand prize winner will win plushies, a notepad, and best of all, a six-month Club Penguin membership card. So whether you're a Club Penguin fan or not, you must admit this is one killer deal.
Before I tell you how to win this goodie bag, let me tell you what exactly is at stake. The free Club Penguin grand prize includes:
One Club Penguin Puffle Plushie
One Club Penguin Squire Plushie
Club Penguin notepad and pen
One 6-Month Club Penguin Membership card ($39.95 value!)
All kinds of in-game items!
Now that you understand what's at stake here, let's talk about how you can enter to win this awesome free Club Penguin grab bag.club penguin free giveaway
How to Enter
Step 1. Click this 'Like' button to share this Club Penguin Contest with your friends:
Step 2. Go to our Facebook fanpage and click 'Like'. This enables you to leave us posts.
Step 3. Leave a post on our Facebook fanpage telling us the following:
What is your game-related New Year's resolution? How are you going about achieving it? What might prevent you from reaching your goal? The more detail the better!
(Example answer: My New Year's resolution is to clean up my FarmVille farm. Currently it looks like a nuclear bomb hit. There are patches of soil, random animals, items, and buildings everywhere. After looking at some of my neighbors' farms, this year I think I'm going to try a new farm design that doesn't look like a junk yard!)
On Monday January 16th, a winner will be chosen. Alexander Armero will reach out to the winner via Facebook or email for their addresses. Sound easy enough? Then what are you waiting for? Enter to win the Club Penguin goodie bag today. Good luck!
Dueling Blades takes the (adorable) fight to Facebook, mobile this March
Dueling Blades
And now for something almost completely different. Fledgling social games maker HourBlast Games looks to craft something different from the lot of popular social games on Facebook and target a different type of social gamer this coming March (We know we've heard that somewhere before.) Billed as a fantasy role-playing game with strategy elements, Dueling Blades looks more like one simply adorable, medieval take on Street Fighter with social play.
"Dueling Blades is not your usual social game," HourBlast COO Joseph Cooper explained to Inside Social Games. "It is a 'core' game with a strong multiplayer experience, and we believe our game will grow organically with the viral marketing channels already present on Facebook." (In other words, HourBlast belongs in the same camp as start-ups like Seismic Games, Rumble Games, U4iA, Row Sham Bow ... we could go on.)
Dueling Blades gameplay
That said, Dueling Blades--built using the Unity Player, which has become less of a barrier these days--does charm at first sight. The fantasy fighting game employs some impressive, shiny visuals and anime cartoon-like characters. According to ISG, the fighter employs "simultaneous turn-based strategy," allowing players to duke it out in real time, but avoiding the potential networking disasters of complete real time.
Based on these early images, we're getting more an impression of games like Shadow Fight, but again, with engrossing visuals and cutesy characters wielding blades (and sticks). HourBlast will soon start a Kickstarter fund for the game, according to ISG, but also wants to attract larger publishers to help Dueling Blades reach critical mass. The game launches in March, and you can read more of Cooper's musings on the game here.
[Image Credit: HourBlast Games]
Are you impressed by the premise of the game and how it looks so far? What do you think of this growing trend of social game makers looking to shake things up?
And now for something almost completely different. Fledgling social games maker HourBlast Games looks to craft something different from the lot of popular social games on Facebook and target a different type of social gamer this coming March (We know we've heard that somewhere before.) Billed as a fantasy role-playing game with strategy elements, Dueling Blades looks more like one simply adorable, medieval take on Street Fighter with social play.
"Dueling Blades is not your usual social game," HourBlast COO Joseph Cooper explained to Inside Social Games. "It is a 'core' game with a strong multiplayer experience, and we believe our game will grow organically with the viral marketing channels already present on Facebook." (In other words, HourBlast belongs in the same camp as start-ups like Seismic Games, Rumble Games, U4iA, Row Sham Bow ... we could go on.)
Dueling Blades gameplay
That said, Dueling Blades--built using the Unity Player, which has become less of a barrier these days--does charm at first sight. The fantasy fighting game employs some impressive, shiny visuals and anime cartoon-like characters. According to ISG, the fighter employs "simultaneous turn-based strategy," allowing players to duke it out in real time, but avoiding the potential networking disasters of complete real time.
Based on these early images, we're getting more an impression of games like Shadow Fight, but again, with engrossing visuals and cutesy characters wielding blades (and sticks). HourBlast will soon start a Kickstarter fund for the game, according to ISG, but also wants to attract larger publishers to help Dueling Blades reach critical mass. The game launches in March, and you can read more of Cooper's musings on the game here.
[Image Credit: HourBlast Games]
Are you impressed by the premise of the game and how it looks so far? What do you think of this growing trend of social game makers looking to shake things up?
Zynga's Hidden Chronicles on Facebook: Our guide to getting started
Are you ready to dive into a world of death and mystery while completing hidden object scenes and mini-games? You can do just that in Zynga's newest Facebook game Hidden Chronicles, which has launched just today. While we've already taken an in-depth look at the overall gameplay, along with what makes the game different from not only other hidden object games but also social games in general, what if you just want to get straight to the gameplay of it all?
We're here with a video beginner's guide that allows you to get a feel for what to expect when you do jump in. This guide will show you the overall tutorial in the game, and also point out a few reminders and tips to completing scenes and decorating your Manor. If you want a larger score, for instance, wait until you've visually spotted all six items on your (current) list before clicking on any of them. This allows you to rack up combo points, like we show you in the video.
So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our guide to getting started in the mysterious world of Hidden Chronicles, and then try the game out for yourself. Also, keep checking back with Games.com as we bring you detailed guides to completing each and every scene in the game!
Check out the rest of our Hidden Chronicles Cheats & Tips right here.
Have you tried out Hidden Chronicles yet on Facebook? Do you think Zynga's take on the hidden object genre can topple Playdom's Gardens of Time?
We're here with a video beginner's guide that allows you to get a feel for what to expect when you do jump in. This guide will show you the overall tutorial in the game, and also point out a few reminders and tips to completing scenes and decorating your Manor. If you want a larger score, for instance, wait until you've visually spotted all six items on your (current) list before clicking on any of them. This allows you to rack up combo points, like we show you in the video.
So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our guide to getting started in the mysterious world of Hidden Chronicles, and then try the game out for yourself. Also, keep checking back with Games.com as we bring you detailed guides to completing each and every scene in the game!
Check out the rest of our Hidden Chronicles Cheats & Tips right here.
Have you tried out Hidden Chronicles yet on Facebook? Do you think Zynga's take on the hidden object genre can topple Playdom's Gardens of Time?
Hidden Chronicles Orient Express: Our guide to finding every item
Zynga's newest Facebook game, Hidden Chronicles, is a hidden object game that gives you a chance to repeatedly complete each scene in the game as many times as you'd like, so long as you have the energy (which recharges over time) to do so. The game's hidden object scenes are separated into chapters belonging to different rooms in your inherited manor (your deceased uncle has left the manor to you in his will). The first section is the Library and the very first scene within the Library is the Orient Express which takes place on a train car.
As further explanation, these scenes are actually "visions" of sorts, allowing you to look into the history of a particular item, in order to uncover the manor's many secrets.
If you're having trouble finding a particular item in the Orient Express, or want to work on building up those combo scores (for bonus points), then check out our guide below to the scene's item locations! Note: The items you'll receive will just be a selection of all of those pictured below.
If you're looking to find a particular item: Hit Ctrl +F (or Command + F if on a Mac) and type in the name of the object you're looking for. This will take you directly to its image.
Set 1:
Horseshoe
Pearl Necklace
Goldfish
Briefcase
Hat
Coatrack
Set 2:
Wallet
Grapes
Bullet
Set 3:
Writing Paper
Open Book
Handcuffs
Cane
Set 4:
Orange Juice
Orange
Coatrack
Set 5:
Baby Bunny
Flask
Revolver
Set 6:
Spoon
Razor
Tortoise
Knitting Basket
Set 7:
Newspaper
Sun
Tear
Dog
Set 8:
Scissors
Electric Fan
Crystal Glassware
Set 9:
Lighter
Fallen Vase
Black Stockings
Set 10:
Purse
Teapot
Sunglasses
Lace Doily
Set 11:
White Roses
Pocket Watch
Kitten
Set 12:
Sunflower
Steam Engine
Trench Coat
Black Gloves
Inkwell
There are a handful of items not pictured above, as the game generates each set of items randomly. When we come across those missing items, we'll make sure to update this space with how you too can find them. In the meantime, feel free to start decorating your Manor and working on building up your own mastery of this scene or any other in the game!
What do you think of hidden object games in general? Did Zynga do a great job of transitioning the genre to the social space?
Kixeye answers Rumble Games: 'Launch a game and then we can talk'
When social games maker Rumble Games' lead designer and co-founder John Yoo lumped Kixeye in with Kabam and Zynga for producing "the same game over and over," Will Harbin, CEO and founder of the Backyard Monsters maker, was not amused. Frankly, Harbin thinks that Yoo spoke prematurely, especially when the only evidence of the company's work is a single image.
"I think it's mostly a lot of smack talk. My advice to them is, very simply, get ready for school," Harbin tells us. "They're gonna learn a lot, and I think it's quite dangerous to talk a big game when you don't even have a game out. I do take a bit of offense to being lumped in with Kabam and Zynga for our games not being immersive and doing the same thing."
As for why Kixeye was named specifically in the interview with Business Insider, Harbin can only guess. "They're simply either just trying to create some controversy, or they truly don't understand our games nor have they played them. Battle Pirates is the only MMORTS [massively multiplayer real-time strategy game] in existence on any platform that's of any worth or merit in terms of usage and engagement. It's the first synchronous RTS of its kind, and we're very proud of that."
Harbin tell us that Battle Pirates, the studio's most recent strategy game on Facebook, is gearing up for its global public launch in March. However, the company has plans to release several new games across multiple genres ranging from role-playing games (RPG) to racing simulators, three of which will launch in 2012. The first of those three is an RPG that will lay the groundwork for a larger MMO (massively multiplayer online game) slated for 2013.
"Some people might say, 'Oh, we're just doing the same thing,' [but] who cares as long as the users are enjoying it? Again, we don't see us as doing the same thing," Harbin tells us. "We're attacking multiple genres. You criticize us for that, then you can criticize EA, Blizzard, Activision and all of the guys for the same thing. There are only so many genres that have proven to work time and time again, and it's based on what consumers want. Well, we're gonna give them what they want."
Have you ever played Kixeye's games before? Do you think they're more of the same or not as immersive as what other companies tout?
"I think it's mostly a lot of smack talk. My advice to them is, very simply, get ready for school," Harbin tells us. "They're gonna learn a lot, and I think it's quite dangerous to talk a big game when you don't even have a game out. I do take a bit of offense to being lumped in with Kabam and Zynga for our games not being immersive and doing the same thing."
As for why Kixeye was named specifically in the interview with Business Insider, Harbin can only guess. "They're simply either just trying to create some controversy, or they truly don't understand our games nor have they played them. Battle Pirates is the only MMORTS [massively multiplayer real-time strategy game] in existence on any platform that's of any worth or merit in terms of usage and engagement. It's the first synchronous RTS of its kind, and we're very proud of that."
Harbin tell us that Battle Pirates, the studio's most recent strategy game on Facebook, is gearing up for its global public launch in March. However, the company has plans to release several new games across multiple genres ranging from role-playing games (RPG) to racing simulators, three of which will launch in 2012. The first of those three is an RPG that will lay the groundwork for a larger MMO (massively multiplayer online game) slated for 2013.
"Some people might say, 'Oh, we're just doing the same thing,' [but] who cares as long as the users are enjoying it? Again, we don't see us as doing the same thing," Harbin tells us. "We're attacking multiple genres. You criticize us for that, then you can criticize EA, Blizzard, Activision and all of the guys for the same thing. There are only so many genres that have proven to work time and time again, and it's based on what consumers want. Well, we're gonna give them what they want."
Have you ever played Kixeye's games before? Do you think they're more of the same or not as immersive as what other companies tout?
CityVille Parisian Arch: Everything you need to know
While CityVille has never really been at a loss for community buildings, allowing you to increase your maximum population cap as much as you'd like (to a point), there's a new community building now available that gives your population cap a giant boost! The Parisian Arch is now available for users level 55 and above, and when it's complete, you'll be able to add 3,500 more citizens to your town. Of course, actually building the Arch is easier said than done.
First and for most, you'll complete this Parisian Arch through a trio of new goals. The first asks you to place (and complete) the Arch, collect 40 French Pastries from Residences and then collect from 40 Paris shipping Parcels. Once you've placed the base of the Parisian Arch in your city, you'll need to spend seven energy to build the frame and can then go to work collecting building materials to finish it off. You'll need 30 ingredients in all:
6 French Relief
6 Eternal Flame
6 Sculpted Soldier
6 Marble Column
6 Engraved Shield
These items are earned through a combination of individual gift requests and general news posts placed on your wall. When heading back to the first goal in this series, you'll receive 300 XP and 15 energy. Here's how to finish off the other two goals in the trio.
French Cuisine
Collect from Parisian Arch 3 Times
Collect from French Cafes or Restaurants 40 Times
Collect 40 French Cookbooks from Community Buildings
Each community building you collect from gives you a random chance at receiving a French Cookbook. The community building doesn't need to be themed to the event in order to give these off. When you finish this goal, you'll receive another 300 XP and 15 energy.
Seeing Double
Collect from Parisian Arch 3 Times
Water 50 Neighbors' Plots
Collect 10 times from Cruise Ships
The neighbor task simply asks you to water your friends' crops that are growing in their cities; it doesn't matter which kind of crop they're growing so long as you water them. For finishing this goal, you'll receive Andre's House, a home that offers 35-680 population to your town, and 315 coins in rent each day.
What do you think of these Parisian Arch goals, or the Arch itself in CityVille? Will you immediately go to work on building one, or do you have enough community buildings in your town to last quite a while?
First and for most, you'll complete this Parisian Arch through a trio of new goals. The first asks you to place (and complete) the Arch, collect 40 French Pastries from Residences and then collect from 40 Paris shipping Parcels. Once you've placed the base of the Parisian Arch in your city, you'll need to spend seven energy to build the frame and can then go to work collecting building materials to finish it off. You'll need 30 ingredients in all:
6 French Relief
6 Eternal Flame
6 Sculpted Soldier
6 Marble Column
6 Engraved Shield
These items are earned through a combination of individual gift requests and general news posts placed on your wall. When heading back to the first goal in this series, you'll receive 300 XP and 15 energy. Here's how to finish off the other two goals in the trio.
French Cuisine
Collect from Parisian Arch 3 Times
Collect from French Cafes or Restaurants 40 Times
Collect 40 French Cookbooks from Community Buildings
Each community building you collect from gives you a random chance at receiving a French Cookbook. The community building doesn't need to be themed to the event in order to give these off. When you finish this goal, you'll receive another 300 XP and 15 energy.
Seeing Double
Collect from Parisian Arch 3 Times
Water 50 Neighbors' Plots
Collect 10 times from Cruise Ships
The neighbor task simply asks you to water your friends' crops that are growing in their cities; it doesn't matter which kind of crop they're growing so long as you water them. For finishing this goal, you'll receive Andre's House, a home that offers 35-680 population to your town, and 315 coins in rent each day.
What do you think of these Parisian Arch goals, or the Arch itself in CityVille? Will you immediately go to work on building one, or do you have enough community buildings in your town to last quite a while?
Thứ Năm, 8 tháng 3, 2012
Pioneer Trail Gold Rush Stories: Everything you need to know
As part of the launch of the Gold Rush in Pioneer Trail (that started with the appearance of the Railroad on the side of our Homesteads), there's now a new five-part goal series that add to the Gold Rush storyline. Of course, these goals are called the Gold Rush Stories, and they are available for users level 13 or higher. First things first, you'll need to place the Supply Outpost on your Homestead. It's a small building that does require any building, so just place it in a far-off corner and you'll be fine. From there, get ready to help your friends on the Homestead tell their stories about the Gold Rush.
Rusty - Success Story!
Sell 15 Adult Oxen
Craft 4 Tuxedos
Outfit Rusty the Prospector
To help each of these characters, you'll need to craft or otherwise collect a series of items via the Supply Outpost. For Rusty, for instance, you'll need to craft some Provisions, craft a Fancy Wallet and collect some Assorted Shoes and Stylish Suspenders with your friends' help. For helping Rusty, you'll receive 250 XP, 200 coins and 5 Blooming Agave.
Helena - Inn-Side Job
Harvest 50 Blooming Agave
Tend 10 White Peach Tree Saplings
Teach Helena How to Run an Inn
Rewards: 450 XP, 400 coins, 5 Spicebush
Jim - Gold N' Opportunity
Harvest 40 Spicebush on your Homestead
Tend 20 Neighbor Cows
Check in on Jim
Rewards: 950 XP, 800 coins, 4 Desert Joshua Trees
Mae - Slender Arm of the Law
Harvest 50 Spanish Daggers on your Homestead
Craft 4 Mustang Lassos
Help Mae Pick Up Jim's Trail
Rewards: 1,125 XP, 1,000 coins, 4 Kit Foxes
Bert - Bert and Earnings
Tend 30 Adult Kit Foxes on your Homestead or your Neighbors'
Craft 4 Spiced Pumpkin Pies
Help Bert Get Back Out East
Rewards: 1,400 XP, 1,250 coins, 5 Gold Rush Vouchers
As you complete these goals, you'll need to ask for crops from the free gifts page, or purchase new items from the store. You'll also have a chance of completing the Headin' West Collection to receive a Saguaro Cactus and 25 Food for turning it in. We'll make sure to let you know when or if more Gold Rush-centric features launch in the game, so keep checking back with us!
[Via Zynga]
What do you think of these Gold Rush Stories goals in Pioneer Trail?
Thứ Tư, 7 tháng 3, 2012
Game of the Day: Bunni - How We First Met
bunni how we first met game of the day
Today's Game of the Day is perfect for Valentine's Day. Bunni: How We First Met is the adorable tale of a young Bunni trying to woo the girl he loves while building up a prosperous island full of cute creatures. It won't be easy though, monsters, deer, work accidents, and more will prevent you from reaching your goal. You'll have to rebuild the island, plant trees, pick flowers, and collect a bustling village of adorable animals to save up money and buy your lady gifts. Can you marry your true love?
Bunni: How We First Met is one of those games you can get lost in for hours. So if you don't have a Valentine this year, or just have some time to kill, dive into this super cute world. You can always save and return to your game later, but if you're like me you'll be hooked all day. Check out Bunni: How We First Met below, and do your part in this romantic tale.
Today's Game of the Day is perfect for Valentine's Day. Bunni: How We First Met is the adorable tale of a young Bunni trying to woo the girl he loves while building up a prosperous island full of cute creatures. It won't be easy though, monsters, deer, work accidents, and more will prevent you from reaching your goal. You'll have to rebuild the island, plant trees, pick flowers, and collect a bustling village of adorable animals to save up money and buy your lady gifts. Can you marry your true love?
Bunni: How We First Met is one of those games you can get lost in for hours. So if you don't have a Valentine this year, or just have some time to kill, dive into this super cute world. You can always save and return to your game later, but if you're like me you'll be hooked all day. Check out Bunni: How We First Met below, and do your part in this romantic tale.
Angry Birds' Rovio possibly offered around $2 billion, but from who?
It's Valentine's Day. Do you know what that means? A.) You better have remembered your gifts and B.) that Angry Birds is on Facebook. To make it known to all, Rovio's CMO Peter Vesterbacka spoke with CNN Money. According to Vesterbacka, the game is largely the same as it is on mobile devices, but has improved graphics. (Don't forget the power-ups!)
Of course, being on a money news outlet, Vesterbacka was asked several questions surrounding Rovio's rumored initial public offering (IPO) and just how much has the company been offered in an acquisition attempt. If you remember from before Zynga's IPO, it was reported in The New York Times that the Finnish developer was offered about $2.25 billion from Zynga, which it turned down.
The Rovio executive doesn't completely refute the rumor, however, admitting that, yes, Rovio has been offered somewhere near that reported number. Of course, Vesterbacka won't tell just who the would-be purchaser was. Just know this: Angry Birds is worth a lot of money, and is set to be worth a lot more depending on whether this Facebook game sticks. (C'mon, it's Angry Birds. You're probably playing it right now.)
Are you psyched to play Angry Birds on Facebook? What types of Angry Birds games are you hoping for in the future?
Of course, being on a money news outlet, Vesterbacka was asked several questions surrounding Rovio's rumored initial public offering (IPO) and just how much has the company been offered in an acquisition attempt. If you remember from before Zynga's IPO, it was reported in The New York Times that the Finnish developer was offered about $2.25 billion from Zynga, which it turned down.
The Rovio executive doesn't completely refute the rumor, however, admitting that, yes, Rovio has been offered somewhere near that reported number. Of course, Vesterbacka won't tell just who the would-be purchaser was. Just know this: Angry Birds is worth a lot of money, and is set to be worth a lot more depending on whether this Facebook game sticks. (C'mon, it's Angry Birds. You're probably playing it right now.)
Are you psyched to play Angry Birds on Facebook? What types of Angry Birds games are you hoping for in the future?
Dueling Blades looks like an action movie on Facebook
We know that Dueling Blades by new social games developer HourBlast Games is coming to Facebook and mobile this March. However, we only had (admittedly) pretty still images to go off of. Until now. HourBlast Games has released a teaser trailer for the game along with several more details about what Dueling Blades is like.
According to a release, Dueling Blades will feature seven different fighting classes and customizable class trees to create unique characters both in look and fighting style. The game sports something called "Simultaneous Turn Combat," which we imagine means turn-based combat occurring in real time with another player present. Of course, this real-time, turn-based multiplayer system will be supported by a lobby system.
Dueling Blades runs in the Unity 3D Player, which means it not only looks good, but can run quite easily on other devices, which are in the works. For now, Dueling Blades is currently in a closed beta test. Some of those features mentioned make it sound as if HourBlast is targeting the "hardcore" crowd with this game. Here's to hoping the right people bite, because this looks downright badass.
Are you impressed by what's going on in Dueling Blades? Do you think there's a place for real-time multiplayer games on Facebook?
According to a release, Dueling Blades will feature seven different fighting classes and customizable class trees to create unique characters both in look and fighting style. The game sports something called "Simultaneous Turn Combat," which we imagine means turn-based combat occurring in real time with another player present. Of course, this real-time, turn-based multiplayer system will be supported by a lobby system.
Dueling Blades runs in the Unity 3D Player, which means it not only looks good, but can run quite easily on other devices, which are in the works. For now, Dueling Blades is currently in a closed beta test. Some of those features mentioned make it sound as if HourBlast is targeting the "hardcore" crowd with this game. Here's to hoping the right people bite, because this looks downright badass.
Are you impressed by what's going on in Dueling Blades? Do you think there's a place for real-time multiplayer games on Facebook?
Is your Valentine hiding in Bigpoint's 250 million players?
An impressive 250 million people have registered to play German online game maker Bigpoint's games. With those kind of odds, you'd be hard pressed not to find a Valentine in there. That's at least if you ask Bigpoint, which released a fun Valentine's Day-themed infographic to show off a bit with statistics like four new players join Bigpoint every second.
What's interesting, however, are the gender splits between the U.S. and Europe. If U.S. Bigpoint dudes are looking for a date through its games, they might be out of luck: Guys outnumber girls 19 to one in Bigpoint's sci-fi shooter Dark Orbit. However, there are three women for every man in Farmerama. Overall, men are the dominant demographic for Bigpoint in the U.S, while women outnumber men in countries like Denmark.
Overall, there isn't much data here that pertains to Valentine's Day, but rather numbers to show off how awesome Bigpoint is. However, Bigpoint does win bonus points for a sense of humor. The infographic asks, "Looking for a date? Farmerama players plant 180,000 date trees each month!" Get it? Whatever, I thought it was cute.
Have you found a Valentine through gaming before? What games do you plan on digging into on Valentine's Day?
What's interesting, however, are the gender splits between the U.S. and Europe. If U.S. Bigpoint dudes are looking for a date through its games, they might be out of luck: Guys outnumber girls 19 to one in Bigpoint's sci-fi shooter Dark Orbit. However, there are three women for every man in Farmerama. Overall, men are the dominant demographic for Bigpoint in the U.S, while women outnumber men in countries like Denmark.
Overall, there isn't much data here that pertains to Valentine's Day, but rather numbers to show off how awesome Bigpoint is. However, Bigpoint does win bonus points for a sense of humor. The infographic asks, "Looking for a date? Farmerama players plant 180,000 date trees each month!" Get it? Whatever, I thought it was cute.
Have you found a Valentine through gaming before? What games do you plan on digging into on Valentine's Day?
Lucky Cruise on Facebook goes full speed ahead out of beta test
Large Animal Games must be one of New York's busiest social game makers these days. Between games for Starz and now the developer's potential cash cow, Lucky Cruise, Large Animal is aiming big with its moves in social gaming. Large Animal's readied-and-fired slots Facebook game is in conjunction with slot machine manufacturer WMS Gaming and publisher 6waves Lolapps.
Lucky Cruise has been in a beta testing period for some time, and ultimately showcases WMS Gaming's various slot machine properties with a social play hook. Players must collect "Luck" in order for the ship every player is assumed to be passengers on, the Lucky Cruise, to move along in its journey. To mix up the often rote slot machine play, players can collect lucky charms that transform the field of play.
"Our play mechanics go far beyond the one-dimensional nature of other Facebook slot content, transforming passive and solitary play into an active, strategic and social experience involving a suite of games," Large Animal Games CEO Wade Tinney said in a release. "Lucky Cruise has already garnered tremendous early success, as evidenced by the number of monthly and daily active users. We're very excited about the relationship with WMS and the initial success of this social casino for both companies."
Large Animal's slots game looks to compete in an increasingly established sub genre on Facebook. Between DoubleDown Casino, Caesar's slots game and what both PopCap and Zynga are up to in the casino games scene, there is more competition than ever in this sub category. Check out whether Lucky Cruise has what it takes:
Click here to play Lucky Cruise on Facebook Now >
Are you excited to hear that another slots game has arrived on Facebook? Has this sub genre already become over-saturated on Facebook?
Lucky Cruise has been in a beta testing period for some time, and ultimately showcases WMS Gaming's various slot machine properties with a social play hook. Players must collect "Luck" in order for the ship every player is assumed to be passengers on, the Lucky Cruise, to move along in its journey. To mix up the often rote slot machine play, players can collect lucky charms that transform the field of play.
"Our play mechanics go far beyond the one-dimensional nature of other Facebook slot content, transforming passive and solitary play into an active, strategic and social experience involving a suite of games," Large Animal Games CEO Wade Tinney said in a release. "Lucky Cruise has already garnered tremendous early success, as evidenced by the number of monthly and daily active users. We're very excited about the relationship with WMS and the initial success of this social casino for both companies."
Large Animal's slots game looks to compete in an increasingly established sub genre on Facebook. Between DoubleDown Casino, Caesar's slots game and what both PopCap and Zynga are up to in the casino games scene, there is more competition than ever in this sub category. Check out whether Lucky Cruise has what it takes:
Click here to play Lucky Cruise on Facebook Now >
Are you excited to hear that another slots game has arrived on Facebook? Has this sub genre already become over-saturated on Facebook?
Gamasutra, laid off, layoff, layoffs, techcrunch, vostu, vostu layoffs
Today is the day that not only millions of couples celebrate their love, but millions of social gamers celebrate the ubiquitous, the venerable, the angry. Rovio has launched Angry Birds on Facebook as of today, Valentine's Day, and it's about everything you'd expect an Angry Birds to be on Facebook, aside from a few key differences.
Because games on Facebook are free-to-play, Rovio had to think of another way for Angry Birds to generate cash on Facebook. Enter power-ups, enhancements that players can collect over time or buy outright using Facebook Credits to up their game. Speaking of which, Angry Birds on Facebook takes a lot of cues from the Blitz series of games by PopCap and other developers. This means leaderboards and other forms of ranking are all present.
Take "crowns", for instance. Each level features a bronze, silver and gold crown that only one friend can hold at a time. You can already see where this is going, right? Angry Birds is one of the most polished, smooth Facebook games we've seen to date with some interesting multiplayer components, to boot.
We can easily see ourselves getting hooked on this version just as much as we did through our iPhones. (And since the Google+ version hasn't been given the same treatment, this could easily become the definitive Angry Birds on browsers.) Considering the Angry Birds Facebook page has over 15 million fans, CityVille and The Sims Social might want to watch out.
Click here to play Angry Birds on Facebook Now >
Are you already into Angry Birds on Facebook? What do you think of Rovio's chances of competing with the likes of EA and Zynga?
Because games on Facebook are free-to-play, Rovio had to think of another way for Angry Birds to generate cash on Facebook. Enter power-ups, enhancements that players can collect over time or buy outright using Facebook Credits to up their game. Speaking of which, Angry Birds on Facebook takes a lot of cues from the Blitz series of games by PopCap and other developers. This means leaderboards and other forms of ranking are all present.
Take "crowns", for instance. Each level features a bronze, silver and gold crown that only one friend can hold at a time. You can already see where this is going, right? Angry Birds is one of the most polished, smooth Facebook games we've seen to date with some interesting multiplayer components, to boot.
We can easily see ourselves getting hooked on this version just as much as we did through our iPhones. (And since the Google+ version hasn't been given the same treatment, this could easily become the definitive Angry Birds on browsers.) Considering the Angry Birds Facebook page has over 15 million fans, CityVille and The Sims Social might want to watch out.
Click here to play Angry Birds on Facebook Now >
Are you already into Angry Birds on Facebook? What do you think of Rovio's chances of competing with the likes of EA and Zynga?
Thứ Bảy, 3 tháng 3, 2012
Zynga gives free rides to FarmVille Lighthouse Cove starting today
FarmVille Lighthouse Cove screen
Oh, you patient ones. Now is finally the time to see if waiting in the freebie line was worth it. For those FarmVille players that declined to fork up 55 Farm Cash ($10 USD, to be exact), the Lighthouse Cove expansion will be available to all starting today. We assume, as with all changes or major releases by Zynga, that this release will be a slow roll-out.
Just like players did early last week, they will hop on a sail boat to a New England-esque coastal farming village. Unfortunately, the area has been ravaged by a brutal storm, and Brenda--the town's resident widow--has enlisted you to help restore it. You'll slowly level up your Lighthouse by repairing the lighthouse, dock and more through quests.
However, free players will not receive the exclusive quests and items given to those who put up the dough. Regardless there looks to be a ton of content here with a larger focus on building a village than simply farming crops. For instance, you'll have fewer plots to farm on that unlock over time in Lighthouse Cove, though those crops yield far more coins, XP and Mastery.
In addition to farming, you can harvest the Cove once its restored for ingredients to use in Restaurant recipes like clams and lobster for dishes like New England Clam Chowder and Lobster Rolls. Another interesting change with FarmVille LC in comparison to its first expansion, English Countryside, is that all quests will be timed this time around.
Gallery: FarmVille Lighthouse Cove
And that includes the bonus quests, courtesy of Brenda. Because quests were persistent throughout FarmVille EC, it was easy for friends to speed ahead or slip behind one another in their progress. "It was harder for players to work on the same thing in English Countryside," FarmVille GM Nate Etter explains.
FarmVille Sailor CalfDuring an early look of the game, Etter told us that the team was going for "a FarmVille meets Martha's Vineyard style." "Players seem to love water, which was a major source of inspiration for Lighthouse Cove," Etter recalls. "I think we're constantly listening to players, [and] that will govern where FarmVille will go."
So, while you're enjoying the serene orange glow and brisk autumn breeze of Lighthouse Cove (imagination, people), try to think up where you would like to go next, and take it to the Facebook page or forums--they're all ears. As for why the second expansion was released early to players who paid Farm Cash, a Zynga representative told us, "We have so many passionate players, that we wanted to offer them a first look at the game."
Well, patience has its payoffs, my friends. Namely, it saves you money. So, enjoy that peace of mind, and increase that peace in FarmVille's Lighthouse Cove. Good things come to those who (choose to) wait--that's especially because we have a bevy of content to get you through your first several hours in FarmVille LC. Enjoy.
Did you pay to get into the FarmVille Lighthouse Cove Early? What do you think of all the new content so far?
Oh, you patient ones. Now is finally the time to see if waiting in the freebie line was worth it. For those FarmVille players that declined to fork up 55 Farm Cash ($10 USD, to be exact), the Lighthouse Cove expansion will be available to all starting today. We assume, as with all changes or major releases by Zynga, that this release will be a slow roll-out.
Just like players did early last week, they will hop on a sail boat to a New England-esque coastal farming village. Unfortunately, the area has been ravaged by a brutal storm, and Brenda--the town's resident widow--has enlisted you to help restore it. You'll slowly level up your Lighthouse by repairing the lighthouse, dock and more through quests.
However, free players will not receive the exclusive quests and items given to those who put up the dough. Regardless there looks to be a ton of content here with a larger focus on building a village than simply farming crops. For instance, you'll have fewer plots to farm on that unlock over time in Lighthouse Cove, though those crops yield far more coins, XP and Mastery.
In addition to farming, you can harvest the Cove once its restored for ingredients to use in Restaurant recipes like clams and lobster for dishes like New England Clam Chowder and Lobster Rolls. Another interesting change with FarmVille LC in comparison to its first expansion, English Countryside, is that all quests will be timed this time around.
Gallery: FarmVille Lighthouse Cove
And that includes the bonus quests, courtesy of Brenda. Because quests were persistent throughout FarmVille EC, it was easy for friends to speed ahead or slip behind one another in their progress. "It was harder for players to work on the same thing in English Countryside," FarmVille GM Nate Etter explains.
FarmVille Sailor CalfDuring an early look of the game, Etter told us that the team was going for "a FarmVille meets Martha's Vineyard style." "Players seem to love water, which was a major source of inspiration for Lighthouse Cove," Etter recalls. "I think we're constantly listening to players, [and] that will govern where FarmVille will go."
So, while you're enjoying the serene orange glow and brisk autumn breeze of Lighthouse Cove (imagination, people), try to think up where you would like to go next, and take it to the Facebook page or forums--they're all ears. As for why the second expansion was released early to players who paid Farm Cash, a Zynga representative told us, "We have so many passionate players, that we wanted to offer them a first look at the game."
Well, patience has its payoffs, my friends. Namely, it saves you money. So, enjoy that peace of mind, and increase that peace in FarmVille's Lighthouse Cove. Good things come to those who (choose to) wait--that's especially because we have a bevy of content to get you through your first several hours in FarmVille LC. Enjoy.
Did you pay to get into the FarmVille Lighthouse Cove Early? What do you think of all the new content so far?
Baseball Superstars: The League goes for a grand slam on Facebook
Just in time for the playoff season in the states (Philadelphia NL East Champs! ... sorry), Gamevil has released its very own baseball simulator on Facebook, Baseball Superstars: The League. The Korean and Los Angeles-based developer best known for the Zenonia series of RPGs (role-playing games) on the iPhone released this social version of its hit baseball sims on iOS.
Of course, EA Sports and Playfish have already staked their claim to the sub genre on Facebook with World Series Superstars, but already Gamevil has one thing going for it: global multiplayer. That's right, once you choose your team's name, logo and specialty between Power, Accuracy and Speed, you can jump into games immediately with anyone playing the game.
While you will certainly need Facebook friends to play in Exhibition games, those looking for a fast and easy Quick Play game, the world's digital baseball managers await you. There's also a Home Run Derby mode as well as full-blown tournaments, which are coming soon. And the gameplay is surprisingly interactive, having players actually swing at pitches with clicks.
Baseball Superstars Logo
Baseball Superstars features a full-blown pitching system as well, in which players select from a variety of pitches and choose exactly where they land in or around the strike zone. There are also a number of commands you can give to base runners to attempt to steal bases. All in all, this looks like an impressively full-featured baseball game on Facebook at launch.
While much of the game has players tweaking their stadiums like most sports games on Facebook, it's the actually Quick Plays and Exhibition games that are the meat and potatoes of Baseball Superstars, and what could make this game a competitor to existing social sports games. "It builds upon our years of strategic advances in the global games market, and shows that we can adapt and offer a unique yet competitive social games experience," VP and head of Gamevil USA Kyu Lee said in a release.
Baseball Superstars gameplay
Baseball Superstars is just Gamevil's second release on Facebook after Train City, which didn't do so hot, according to AppData. Considering the hype train that is US baseball in September and October, baseball fans (the closet Facebook game-loving ones, at least) are going to be on the hunt for a new experience on Facebook.
And it looks like Gamevil will be there to meet them with a Facebook game that actually focuses on, you know, the baseball? Hey, the second time can still be a charm, too, right?
Click here to play Baseball Superstars: The League on Facebook Now >
Have you tried this new baseball Facebook game yet? What do you think of Gamevil's second entry into the Facebook game space, and what about their existing iOS games?
Of course, EA Sports and Playfish have already staked their claim to the sub genre on Facebook with World Series Superstars, but already Gamevil has one thing going for it: global multiplayer. That's right, once you choose your team's name, logo and specialty between Power, Accuracy and Speed, you can jump into games immediately with anyone playing the game.
While you will certainly need Facebook friends to play in Exhibition games, those looking for a fast and easy Quick Play game, the world's digital baseball managers await you. There's also a Home Run Derby mode as well as full-blown tournaments, which are coming soon. And the gameplay is surprisingly interactive, having players actually swing at pitches with clicks.
Baseball Superstars Logo
Baseball Superstars features a full-blown pitching system as well, in which players select from a variety of pitches and choose exactly where they land in or around the strike zone. There are also a number of commands you can give to base runners to attempt to steal bases. All in all, this looks like an impressively full-featured baseball game on Facebook at launch.
While much of the game has players tweaking their stadiums like most sports games on Facebook, it's the actually Quick Plays and Exhibition games that are the meat and potatoes of Baseball Superstars, and what could make this game a competitor to existing social sports games. "It builds upon our years of strategic advances in the global games market, and shows that we can adapt and offer a unique yet competitive social games experience," VP and head of Gamevil USA Kyu Lee said in a release.
Baseball Superstars gameplay
Baseball Superstars is just Gamevil's second release on Facebook after Train City, which didn't do so hot, according to AppData. Considering the hype train that is US baseball in September and October, baseball fans (the closet Facebook game-loving ones, at least) are going to be on the hunt for a new experience on Facebook.
And it looks like Gamevil will be there to meet them with a Facebook game that actually focuses on, you know, the baseball? Hey, the second time can still be a charm, too, right?
Click here to play Baseball Superstars: The League on Facebook Now >
Have you tried this new baseball Facebook game yet? What do you think of Gamevil's second entry into the Facebook game space, and what about their existing iOS games?
NHL Superstars coming to Facebook in October
Adding to its popular brand of "Superstars" titles on Facebook, Electronic Arts has announced the production of NHL Superstars for Facebook. This new game, as reported by ShackNews, comes on the heels of EA's NHL 12 on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 breaking franchise records for the biggest launch week in the franchise's history.
As for the franchise's jump onto the Facebook ice, we're told this: "NHL Superstars will bring an all-new NHL experience to millions of hockey fans by enabling players to build and manage their ultimate team of professional hockey players. With dynamic and accessible gameplay, fans can compete head-to-head in games against their Facebook friends from around the world."
While specific details are still lacking as to what we can exactly expect from NHL Superstars, we can't imagine EA / Playfish breaking the mold. We'll likely be able to collect cards that contain professional hockey players, and then trade those cards out to create the best team possible. Each player will likely have stats, and we'll be able to use those players in virtual hockey games against others for supremacy.
We don't have a specific release date for NHL Superstars, although the game is set to take to the ice sometime in October. We'll make sure to give you a complete look at the game when we know more.
Are you excited to see NHL Superstars come to Facebook? Which players will you look for to create your perfect team?
Soon, you might score some Angry Birds with that Starbucks macchiato
Angry Birds Starbucks
"Hey, I'll take a grande caramel cappuccino ... with an Angry Bird on top? Yeah, that works." We doubt most Starbucks baristas would do this nonsense just for you, but you might at least be playing a lot more Angry Birds in Starbucks locations soon. In fact, according to Bloomberg, you may soon take trips to Starbucks specifically to play Rovio's wildly successful game.
During an interview with Bloomberg, Rovio SVP Wibe Wagemans said that his company is in talks with the Seattle-based coffee company to set up virtual goods offers and perhaps even digital scoreboards in Starbucks locations. Keep in mind, however, that this is the same guy who made lofty claims like, "We are now the fastest-growing consumer brand in history."
But what honestly leads us to believe that this isn't merely poppycock is that the Finnish game developer has conducted similar partnerships with national companies in the past. Take Barnes and Noble bookstores, for instance, which offered Nook e-reader owners a free Mighty Eagle download earlier this year--just for visiting with their device in tow.
And don't forget that you can already find a bunch of Angry Birds-themed retail items like plush dolls and t-shirts in the book seller's stores. More importantly, who runs the in-house Barnes and Noble cafes? Yup, Starbucks. So, despite Starbucks's refusal to comment on or acknowledge whether it's talking to Rovio, all signs are pointing at least to a dash of Mighty Eagle with your mocha macchiato.
And Starbucks would be kind of dumb not at least dip one toe into the Angry Birds nest. With toys, cook books and a feature film in the works, Rovio's flagship brand is huge. Not to mention that a Facebook version of the game is in the works, according to Wagemans, which would all but blow this franchise wide open. It's a good time for Angry Birds, and they're looking to share the wealth ... anywhere, really.
[Image Credit: Food Beast]
Would you go to Starbucks just to keep your high score above your fellow coffee snobs lovers'? What do you think of Rovio's immense push into the retail world with Angry Birds?
"Hey, I'll take a grande caramel cappuccino ... with an Angry Bird on top? Yeah, that works." We doubt most Starbucks baristas would do this nonsense just for you, but you might at least be playing a lot more Angry Birds in Starbucks locations soon. In fact, according to Bloomberg, you may soon take trips to Starbucks specifically to play Rovio's wildly successful game.
During an interview with Bloomberg, Rovio SVP Wibe Wagemans said that his company is in talks with the Seattle-based coffee company to set up virtual goods offers and perhaps even digital scoreboards in Starbucks locations. Keep in mind, however, that this is the same guy who made lofty claims like, "We are now the fastest-growing consumer brand in history."
But what honestly leads us to believe that this isn't merely poppycock is that the Finnish game developer has conducted similar partnerships with national companies in the past. Take Barnes and Noble bookstores, for instance, which offered Nook e-reader owners a free Mighty Eagle download earlier this year--just for visiting with their device in tow.
And don't forget that you can already find a bunch of Angry Birds-themed retail items like plush dolls and t-shirts in the book seller's stores. More importantly, who runs the in-house Barnes and Noble cafes? Yup, Starbucks. So, despite Starbucks's refusal to comment on or acknowledge whether it's talking to Rovio, all signs are pointing at least to a dash of Mighty Eagle with your mocha macchiato.
And Starbucks would be kind of dumb not at least dip one toe into the Angry Birds nest. With toys, cook books and a feature film in the works, Rovio's flagship brand is huge. Not to mention that a Facebook version of the game is in the works, according to Wagemans, which would all but blow this franchise wide open. It's a good time for Angry Birds, and they're looking to share the wealth ... anywhere, really.
[Image Credit: Food Beast]
Would you go to Starbucks just to keep your high score above your fellow coffee snobs lovers'? What do you think of Rovio's immense push into the retail world with Angry Birds?
Social game network Hi5 suffers 'significant' layoffs, pushes onward
Hopefully not sounding too crass, but this is one of the unfortunate if efficient advantages of technology. TechCrunch reports that Hi5, a social game network looking to compete with Google+ Games and Facebook in 2012, has laid off 28 employees. The decision, confirmed by infamous pundit and Hi5 president and CTO Alex St. John, was made in response to new tech:
"We have also been building the next generation site in a new architecture, .NET framework, and have moved away from Open Source and Java technology," St. John told TechCrunch. "As we have recently turned the corner on our technology migration efforts we have been able to significantly reduce the number of positions required to support the older hi5 site and are in the process of re-organizing the company to focus entirely on the development and deployment of our next generation social play site."
Simply put, technological advances in how the future Hi5 website will work has led to automation in web support that was before handled by multiple employees. Since the new website can handle much of those tasks on its own, 28 of those full-time and contract workers were deemed no longer necessary. TechCrunch recalls this is far from the first time Hi5 has trimmed the fat, so to speak.
The company, originally a general-use social network, has since pivoted toward capitalizing on social gaming. Early next year, it will unveil its next generation social gaming network with 28 fewer people to celebrate, sadly. "The departing folks were very talented and we hated to let them go but our business is changing rapidly now," St. John said to TechCrunch. "We hope that other great companies in this area snap them up quickly."
Even with its automated enhancements, it will be interesting to see just whether Hi5 can hop into the ring with the big league players, Facebook and Google. Its strategy doesn't seem to be one of scale, so we're intrigued to see what's up St. John's sleeve. Regardless, best wishes to those 28 unfortunate folks--may you find super awesome gigs elsewhere.
What do you think of this news just as Hi5 prepares to enter its next phase of social gaming? Do you think the company could become a viable competitor to Facebook and Google in social games?
"We have also been building the next generation site in a new architecture, .NET framework, and have moved away from Open Source and Java technology," St. John told TechCrunch. "As we have recently turned the corner on our technology migration efforts we have been able to significantly reduce the number of positions required to support the older hi5 site and are in the process of re-organizing the company to focus entirely on the development and deployment of our next generation social play site."
Simply put, technological advances in how the future Hi5 website will work has led to automation in web support that was before handled by multiple employees. Since the new website can handle much of those tasks on its own, 28 of those full-time and contract workers were deemed no longer necessary. TechCrunch recalls this is far from the first time Hi5 has trimmed the fat, so to speak.
The company, originally a general-use social network, has since pivoted toward capitalizing on social gaming. Early next year, it will unveil its next generation social gaming network with 28 fewer people to celebrate, sadly. "The departing folks were very talented and we hated to let them go but our business is changing rapidly now," St. John said to TechCrunch. "We hope that other great companies in this area snap them up quickly."
Even with its automated enhancements, it will be interesting to see just whether Hi5 can hop into the ring with the big league players, Facebook and Google. Its strategy doesn't seem to be one of scale, so we're intrigued to see what's up St. John's sleeve. Regardless, best wishes to those 28 unfortunate folks--may you find super awesome gigs elsewhere.
What do you think of this news just as Hi5 prepares to enter its next phase of social gaming? Do you think the company could become a viable competitor to Facebook and Google in social games?
Zynga reveals Mafia Wars 2, to be a 'badass' Facebook game [Video]
To most, Facebook gaming is nothing but farmland, cows and rainbows with a dash of brand endorsement. Zynga, one of the stereotype's main offenders, hopes to set the record straight with Mafia Wars 2. A full-blown sequel to the original text-based Facebook RPG (role-playing game), Mafia Wars 2 will bring the franchise into "a vast 3D world where being bad never felt so good."
Judging from this early artwork and the ... interesting trailer below, it seems as if Zynga could make good on previous speculation that its next Mafia Wars game would take a more literal approach in paying homage to its inspirations.
The trailer is set to Jane's Addiction's "Mountain Song," you know, so its badassery really sets in. Jokes (about the narration) aside, the video is impressively-edited with its stylistic, "golden" approach to blood and gore.
Unfortunately, all we know about Mafia Wars 2 is apparently how badass it's going to be. While that may be all some need to get psyched, you can check out and "Like" the game's official Facebook fan page to find out more about the game.
Oh, and you'll score some early items for the game by hopping on board early like some accessories for your character and decorations. These already tell us a great deal about the game--fully customizable 3D avatars, anyone? Alright, now we know you're hyped.
[Video and Image Credit: Zynga]
Are you excited to get your clickers on some fresh gang bustin' in Mafia Wars 2? What did you think of the announcement trailer?
Judging from this early artwork and the ... interesting trailer below, it seems as if Zynga could make good on previous speculation that its next Mafia Wars game would take a more literal approach in paying homage to its inspirations.
The trailer is set to Jane's Addiction's "Mountain Song," you know, so its badassery really sets in. Jokes (about the narration) aside, the video is impressively-edited with its stylistic, "golden" approach to blood and gore.
Unfortunately, all we know about Mafia Wars 2 is apparently how badass it's going to be. While that may be all some need to get psyched, you can check out and "Like" the game's official Facebook fan page to find out more about the game.
Oh, and you'll score some early items for the game by hopping on board early like some accessories for your character and decorations. These already tell us a great deal about the game--fully customizable 3D avatars, anyone? Alright, now we know you're hyped.
[Video and Image Credit: Zynga]
Are you excited to get your clickers on some fresh gang bustin' in Mafia Wars 2? What did you think of the announcement trailer?
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