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Ravenwood Fair is an addictive role playing game set deep in the scary Woods where you as a fearless entrepreneur decide to clear the land and build a fun Fair for all the woodland animals to enjoy. Ravenwood Fair is a delightful game full of quests and interesting story lines developed by LOLapps for Facebook.
Ravenwood Fair allows you to create an amazing Renaissance fair deep in the woods while you complete quests and guide the discussions of adorable woodland friends that visit you while keeping them safe from the scary creatures of the deep woods. Build games and attractions to keep visitors coming to the Fair and earn energy, sap, food, and wood to help you build even more. Gamezebo's Ravenwood Fair strategy guide and walkthrough will provide you with a quick start guide, tips, tricks, and hints on how to win.
Getting Started
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Ravenwood Fair can be found on Facebook by clicking on the link at the bottom of this page or on the direct link here - http://apps.facebook.com/ravenwoodfair
You must have a current Facebook account to play. If you need one you can register for it here - http://www.facebook.com
When you begin the game you will be asked to follow a checklist of items such as "Like" the game at Facebook, give permissions to publish accomplishments and images on your Facebook profile and to give your email address for notifications. Once you do all of these things this bar will disappear above your game.
You will start out with 200 Coins, 15 Wood, and 25 Energy. The secondary currency in the game is Facebook credits which will allow you to purchase higher end items as well as instant completions of some projects. You can purchase more Facebook credits with a major credit card if you wish. You can also play the game using only coins as your currency but there will be many items you will not be able to place in your Fair.
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Next you will be asked to choose your Gender and the character you choose will be your avatar during the game. You can click on it at anytime in the game and the word "Makeover" will appear. Click on that and you can purchase different clothing for your character or change its gender for a fee.
The Woods are very spooky and dense with trees. Most trees take at least 2 clicks to chop them down and some as many as 4. Each time you click is equivalent to chopping with an Axe once. A meter will appear showing how many times you will need to swing to chop a tree down. Each time you click on a tree you will also notice that logs, (Wood), Mushrooms (Food), Lightning Bolts (Energy), Stars (XP), and Coins (Basic Currency) will scatter around the area. There are also other items that will show up less frequently such as sap, ladybugs, candy corn, and others. All of these items can be used in other capacities to either build new items or complete quests. You will need to click on these items to collect them off the ground.
The XP (Experience points) help you to level up so the more you do the faster you will progress in the game.
Each level unlocks additional quests, and items in the store you can purchase.
Game Elements
Here are the basic game screen elements and what they represent:
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A. Game Currency - Here you will see the game's currencies and how much of each you have. There are 2 types of currency used in the game. Coins are the basic currency and you will see these appear when you perform certain actions such as chopping trees, building, etc. The secondary currency is Facebook Credits which can be purchased with a major credit card. You can purchase exclusive higher end items with Facebook credits and you can purchase items you can access instantly versus having to find or earn them which will help you build certain structures and complete quests much faster or even instantly.
B. Wood - This is your Wood Stock and you will need this wood in order to build games, buildings and decorative items to place in your Fair. When you note a purchase price next to an item in the shop you will also see a wood price as well. For example, instead of just coins or Facebook Credits, you may have to pay 1200 coins and 40 pieces of wood in order to purchase an item.
C. Food Indicator - The Mushroom icon represents the amount of food you have in the game. Food is important because it can be traded for energy which you need to perform actions in the game. NOTE - There are other types of food icons found in the game as you proceed but the Mushroom is the basic representation of food.
D. Energy Indicator - This is your energy meter and you start out with 25 energy and use 1 energy when one action is performed such as swinging and axe, or cutting an item. You will note the blue energy meter going down as you use it and every 5 minutes your energy regenerates 1 point at a time. If you completely run out of energy you can purchase it, ask for friends to send it, trade food for it, or wait for it to regenerate on its own.
E. XP Indicator/Fun Rating - Here you can see how many XP (Experience Points/Stars) you have earned in the game and how many you need to reach the next level in the game. The bar meter lets you see how far along you are at a glance. Here you will also see your Fun rating which increases the more fun items you add to your Fair such as games and decor. If a neighbor visits you and helps you out with a fun item they will increase your fun rating number as well.
F. Quest List - Here you will find your current Quest list. These are activities for you to complete that will earn you a large cash, XP, or other reward when finished. As soon as you finish a quest a new one will appear in its place. There are always new quests being added to the game as well as new buildings, games, and decorative items.
G. Game Character, Items to Collect after Action - Here you will see the Raccoon in a dress located in the center as the Female avatar Character in the Story. If you have chosen the Male avatar you will be a brown bear character. (This character represents you in this Role playing Game)
H. Conversation/Text Area - This game is a RPG (Role Playing Game) and the characters talk to each other when you click on their characters. You will choose the response of each character and this gives you a chance to control what happens in the game. NOTE - Seeing a certain message repeatedly from a character may be a hint that you need to look for or build an item.
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(Bottom View of Game Screen)
I. Powers - These are the hidden Powers you can find in the Woods while clearing trees and brush away. Powers give you a one time use advantage you can use when you choose. The badger power shown in the image above will cause a tree to chop down with a single chop saving you energy.
J. Conversation Box - This is where the dialogue shows up when you click on a character and interact with them.
K. Neighbor Menu - This is where your Neighbors will appear once they accept your friend request. Click on their image to visit their Fair. (See Visiting Neighbors below)
L. Game Settings - Click on the arrow to expand this menu as shown above. Here you can zoom in and out of the game and toggle sound on and off.
M. Game Controls - Here you will find the Multi-tool Cursor, Cancel button, Game Shoppe to purchase items and your inventory which is where any gifts given to you will be placed until you use or sell them.
Using and Replenishing Energy
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All actions your character performs take energy. Energy is measured at the blue meter at the top right of the screen.
You are given a maximum of 25 energy which increases as you level up. Your energy replenishes on its own at a rate of 1 energy point per minute. Energy can also be found as blue lightning bolts while chopping down trees or visiting neighbors. Click on these bolts to add the energy to your total.
If you run out of energy you can trade food for it. There are a few increments you can choose from and you can also request that your neighbors send you energy via the live feed on Facebook.
How to Clear the Land
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When you begin the game you will notice there are many spooky trees and you will need to chop these down to clear the land on which you will build your Fair with games, buildings and decor items which will make money for you at various intervals.
When you place your cursor over a tree it will highlight in yellow and a message will appear showing you how many chops are needed to chop it down. Some will require only 2 and some will require 4 or more.
Each click is one swing of the axe and costs you 1 energy point. Each time you chop you will find stars, sap, energy, coins, and wood laying around the area. You are to click on these items as they are added to your grand totals and you will use these items for various things. XP will help you level up, coins will help you purchase items, Wood will help you build items, food will help you purchase more energy, and sap will help with various quests.
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Begin clearing the land right away and you will begin to build up your stores of items to help you in other areas of the game.
As you clear the land you will notice that there are also thorns to clear as well as rocks. Note that these are removed in the same manner as the trees. Click on them to see how many times is needed to clear them and each click will cost you 1 energy point and earn you additional items as you clear the items away.
How to Purchase, Place and Build items
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Once you have the land cleared you will want to begin completing quests many of which will require you to build items on the land to start your Fair. Many items in addition to currency will require you to have other materials in stock to help you purchase them. For example, in addition to an item costing 500 coins it may also require you to have 50 wood in stock.
Click on the "Shoppe" button at the menu area in the bottom right hand corner of the screen. This will open the Game's store and along the top there are various tabs dividing all the categories in which you can purchase from. Note the type of currency an item is purchased with and also note especially in the games area how much the game will earn you and how often.
Note: You will have to re-stock all items in the stores and games at various intervals and this will cost you as well.
Once you are ready to purchase an item simply click on the "Buy" button and then you will place the item.
Note: Purchasing a game or building does not mean you are purchasing it in its completed state. You are purchasing the framework for the item and will need to build it once you place the framework on the land which will cost you "Actions" to build. Each game or building has a certain number of Actions you will need to spend to build it. Actions cost 1 energy but will also earn you additional XP and materials.
Once you have clicked on the buy button you can now place the framework on the cleared land. Click on the location you wish to place it and if it does not turn red you can place the item by clicking on the area.
Now you will see a framework of the building or game. Place your cursor over it to see how many times you will need to pound or hit the structure to build it. Each time you click on it you will in essence hit the hammer and this will cost you 1 energy point. NOTE - Some buildings will need additional items which will be listed. You may have to chop down more trees to search for these items or you can request friends gift them to you or purchase them using Facebook Credits if you don't want to wait. Once the building or Game is finished it will need to be stocked and then it will begin to make money for you.
Hidden Surprises/Powers
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Hidden Surprises - As you steadily work at chopping down trees you will find hidden surprises in the woods.
As you clear away thorns and rocks and stumps you will find abandoned games and buildings that once you clear them can be used in your Fair like any other and you will gain fun ranking points from them.
Keep an eye out for areas with thick trees, and thorns as you might just find a hidden surprise.
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Powers - In addition to buildings and games you may also find hidden items known as powers. If you find them they will store at the bottom left corner of your screen and give you a one time use power.
The first power you will see will be the Badger. If you use him you can chop down any tree with just one click!
Attracting Visitors to your Fair
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The more games and buildings you have at your Fair the more Visitors you will attract and they will spend money on your games and attractions.
Visitors will play and help run the games and you can have conversations with the visitors by clicking on them. At the bottom of the screen you will see a dialogue box and you can choose the response of the character to help direct the way the store plays out in your game. Many of these center around quests and completing quests help to keep the storyline moving.
As you level up continue to add more items to your fair to make it attractive to the other woodland creatures.
You will also need to scare away anything in the Woods that scare your visitors such as birds and other creatures that come out of the trees.
Comforting Scared Visitors/Protectors/Fighting Monsters
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Every so often you will notice one of your Visitors acting nervous or frightened. If you place your cursor over this visitor you will see a countdown clock alerting you to the fact that you have a certain amount of time to calm down this visitor.
Calm the visitor down by clicking on them. This will cost you 1 energy point and will earn you 10 coins. The visitor is now happy again so they continue to spend money at your attractions.
You can also comfort a visitor of a Neighbor's friend if you run across a scared visitor in your Neighbor's fair while visiting.
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Protectors - Protectors are items you can purchase in the Shoppe which will for a period of time protect your visitors from scary creatures in the woods. You will need to calm visitors less when you have a protector in place. Protectors will need to be recharged at intervals and cost 1 energy to do so. The image above is showing the "Happy Oak" Protector which costs 600 Coins and requires 60 Wood to build it.
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Fighting Monsters - Occasionally you will see a Monster appear at your Fair and you will need to Banish him. One of the first monsters you will see is the Black Robed "Grimm" or the Wood like "Domovoi" Click on him 2 or 3 times to beat him up and he will go away. It will cost you 1 energy each time you strike him but you will receive a reward and can share this bonus on your live feed if you choose. As you level up different types of monsters will appear in the game.
Role Playing Components of the Game
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Ravenwood Fair is a RPG or "Role Playing Game" and you can have conversations with any of the creatures that visit your Fair. Simply click on them and a topic will appear at the bottom center of the screen. You will be given a choice of responses which will guide the storyline of the game.
Completing Quests
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Quests are tasks that you are to complete for huge coin and XP bonuses. Quests are listed at the left side of the screen and there are always new ones being added. Click on an icon at the left side of the screen to see what the requirements are.
Sometimes you will have simple quests that require you to chop trees until you find a certain amount of items and they will progressively become more difficult until it takes quite a while to complete a quest.
Once you complete a quest you can share the news with your friends on your Facebook profile page and live feed and your Neighbors can click on this for a cash, Wood, or food bonus for their Fairs. As soon as one quest is completed a new one will appear in the queue.
New Quests will be added to the game as the game is updated each week so be sure to check frequently.
Inviting/Visiting your Neighbors
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Neighbors are an important part of the game and the more you have the more opportunities you have for extra currency and XP. You can send out invitations from the top left of the game screen and once your friend accepts they will be shown at the bottom of the screen in the Neighbor area. Click on their icon to visit their Fair.
Once you reach their area you will note their are 5 golden lightning bolts along the left of the screen. You can work at any building for your neighbor up to 5 times once every 24 hours.
You will earn 1 energy and 25 coins for each neighbor you visit every 24 hours and you can perform 5 tasks for your neighbors using the golden energy at the left of the screen. Whatever you do for them will benefit the both of you. If you work in a building you will increase their fun rating and earn coins for yourself. If you chop down trees you will get to keep the Stars, Wood, Coins, Sap or whatever results from chopping that tree.
Sending and Receiving Gifts from your Neighbors
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You can send one free gift to a neighbor once every 24 hours.
Click on the "Send Gift" icon at the top of the game screen and choose the item you wish to send. You can send one type of gift to everyone or a different gift to different friends. Click on the item you wish to send and a list of your friends names will appear. Click on the box and then hit send and they will have to go to their acceptance page at Facebook to accept your gift.
To Receive gifts sent to you Click on "Home" and then click on the area at the mid right of the page where you can see gifts have been sent to you. Once in the page you can accept each gift individually. These gifts will go directly into your inventory until you are ready to use them. You can place them in your Fair right away or you can sell the items if you wish.
Note: Friends can send you 1 energy point as a gift as well as sap and other items needed to complete quests. Be sure to ask neighbors for what you want and send gifts daily so they will send to you. You can save a lot of money using gifts.
Congratulations!
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You have completed the basic game play guide for Ravenwood Fair by LOLapps at Facebook. Be sure to check back often for game updates, Staff and user reviews, user tips, forum comments and much more.
Click here to Play Ravenwood Fair >
Friday, January 13, 2012
FrontierVille toys finally available as a free gift
Toys as Gifts
Toys -- we need lots of 'em to fill up that new Toy Factory in FrontierVille. The only way we've been able to get said toys is by begging friends to send them to us via Facebook Wall post, even though we were told that they would also be available to send/ receive as free gifts to/from neighbors.
Just when we were starting to think 'WTF?,' the toys finally make an appearance in Free Gifts area of the game. So now we can start gifting each other with wild abandon -- not to mention ask our friends for Toys via the Toy Factory menu. So that means double the supply of toys coming in. In other words, you'll be well above Scrooge status in no time (and that much closer to wrangling in your own Winter Mare, which you can get in exchange for 500 toys). Now, go forth and spread the love by giving virtual toys to all the girls and boys.
Toys -- we need lots of 'em to fill up that new Toy Factory in FrontierVille. The only way we've been able to get said toys is by begging friends to send them to us via Facebook Wall post, even though we were told that they would also be available to send/ receive as free gifts to/from neighbors.
Just when we were starting to think 'WTF?,' the toys finally make an appearance in Free Gifts area of the game. So now we can start gifting each other with wild abandon -- not to mention ask our friends for Toys via the Toy Factory menu. So that means double the supply of toys coming in. In other words, you'll be well above Scrooge status in no time (and that much closer to wrangling in your own Winter Mare, which you can get in exchange for 500 toys). Now, go forth and spread the love by giving virtual toys to all the girls and boys.
FrontierVille Kwanzaa Kinara and Flashing Tree bring cheer of all kinds
FrontierVille Kwanzaa and Christmas
Finally, the dancing around the bush has ended. Zynga and FrontierVille have finally decided to address and celebrate the rest of the true holidays this season (the first being Hanukkah, of course): Kwanzaa and Christmas. While most of the recent events in FrontierVille have been mostly Christmas-esque, it's only now that our fellow pioneers can recognize both of the final winter holidays in 2010: Kwanzaa and Christmas.
The new Kwanzaa Kinara is asking for 8,500 coins and 20 Wood while the Flashing Tree is going for a whopping 52 Horseshoes. Now, we're not even going to try to explain the discrepancy in price between these two items, but asking about $6 for a tree with lights on it would be considered absurd by some and outright crazy by others. Anyway, these two items are limited edition, so if you want to celebrate the holidays your way on the homestead, now is the time as both of these festive decorations will be going away in just 22 days.
Finally, the dancing around the bush has ended. Zynga and FrontierVille have finally decided to address and celebrate the rest of the true holidays this season (the first being Hanukkah, of course): Kwanzaa and Christmas. While most of the recent events in FrontierVille have been mostly Christmas-esque, it's only now that our fellow pioneers can recognize both of the final winter holidays in 2010: Kwanzaa and Christmas.
The new Kwanzaa Kinara is asking for 8,500 coins and 20 Wood while the Flashing Tree is going for a whopping 52 Horseshoes. Now, we're not even going to try to explain the discrepancy in price between these two items, but asking about $6 for a tree with lights on it would be considered absurd by some and outright crazy by others. Anyway, these two items are limited edition, so if you want to celebrate the holidays your way on the homestead, now is the time as both of these festive decorations will be going away in just 22 days.
Crime City Cheats & Tips Walkthrough
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Crime City is a Facebook game that lets you take command of your own hood and build your career within the crime world. Open up businesses to collect money, commit crimes to earn rewards and respect, increase your wealth and influence to be the best mafia lord in the city. These are just a few of the things you can do to get started playing Crime City by referring to this quick start guide.
Build your Hood
Your hood is your neighborhood where you construct buildings to help you collect resources and materials to do crimes in several locations. When you start in the game, you'll have your own steel mill and get to build your first business, a laundromat. Use these buildings to jump start your career in crime to support you in the list of jobs needed to be accomplished.
As you progress through the game, you'll need more cash to buy equipment and vehicles to attain goals. Expand your hood by constructing more buildings. Go and click on the store icon and you are presented with 3 types of buildings.
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The first two is what you'll need. Money buildings provide you with cash, which you can collect at certain periods. Some need resources for it to be completed, such as paint, concrete blocks or drills. Ask help from your mafia members and friends for them to send it over.
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Resource buildings provide energy and steel. There is no urgent need to build another steel mill at earlier stages since you will have enough to construct your other buildings. For energy, the coffee shop is a must. It will help you finish more jobs when your energy runs out.
Special buildings are beneficial but only if you're willing to spend some real money and credits to get ahead of your rivals.
The rest are for decorative purposes. Having roads, adding trees and road signs will make your neighborhood more "city friendly". Don't forget to expand your hood to make room for more buildings.
Currency and Resources
There are 3 main currencies you need to collect in order to progress through the game.
Money (cash)
Diamonds
Respect
Money is needed to purchase items in the store. You can collect them from doing jobs and buildings you've constructed in your hood. You can also get money from rivals when you fight and rob their hood. You'll get more of it when you finish goals and level up.
Diamonds are used to purchase equipment such as armor, vehicles, and weapons. You gain them by finishing jobs, robbing rivals and attaining goals. The bigger the jobs, the more diamonds you earn.
Respect is gained when you fight and rob rivals. This is also needed for items in the store.
Energy is the most important resource you'll need. The more you have and increase its maximum level through skill points, you'll be able to finish more jobs.
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You can gain energy through time by waiting, collecting it from resource buildings, visiting your mafia members and doing jobs.
Steel is needed to construct some buildings in your hood. You can collect it from the steel factory or when visiting mafia members.
Job Preparation and Completion
At earlier levels, jobs are easy to accomplish. You'll need few energy points and equipment needed are cheap. But, as your progress, jobs will take several steps to accomplish.
To complete jobs, it's best to follow the story line and accomplish the list of goals that appear.
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All goals will give you a list of tasks to do at each location. You can click on the links within the window to make it easier for you to proceed to the place. Some jobs will entail you to deal with buildings and some to interact with other people (avatars). To aid you on what needs to be done, look around and you'll see green arrows on top of buildings and people.
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These are job indicators. Hover your mouse over each to know how much energy and number of steps are needed to accomplish the job. Clicking on it will sometimes reveal the equipment required for the job. If you have enough resources, go ahead and purchase it.
For jobs that take a lot of steps, your energy level might not be enough to finish it in one go. A tip here is to go to your hood and collect energy from your coffee shop. You can also visit your mafia members. You'll get 20 energy points for every visit.
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Location Mastery for Skill Points
It's recommended, not only for goal purposes, but to gain skill points, to master each location. At the bottom, just above your neighbor's list, you'll see a bar with a number beside it. A yellow arrow is also shown. This is your mastery bar that indicates your mastery level for each location.
By clicking on the arrow, it will show yellow arrows that will indicate all the jobs you need to complete to master one level. Take note that these arrows are hidden by default.
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You can opt to do the jobs to gain rewards. It is recommended to wait for it to appear on the goal's list so you can get that extra goal bonus. You can also go back to the location to increase your mastery level and you'll get more rewards for each job.
Each time you master each location, you'll get 1 skill point to use to increase your skills within your profile.
Collections and Getting Busted
As mentioned, constructing more buildings in your hood will be beneficial for you to gain more money and energy.
Take note that each building has an "expiry" date (or time). The faster you can collect from it, the shorter grace period you have until the cops bust your building. The longer you wait before you collect, the more money you will lose.
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You'll know if your building has been busted if you see an image of a police car within the collect bubble.
Upgrade Buildings
Improving your buildings will increase the number of rewards you'll get. Upgrade the laundromat to the highest level as soon as you can. This will help you accumulate cash to purchase items.
The coffee shop is another key building you need to upgrade. The more energy you can collect every time it is ready, the quicker you can finish a job.
Rob and Fight Against Rivals
Fight against your rivals and rob their buildings. This will give you instant rewards.
When you visit the rival's list, the sure way to win is to pick someone who has less mafia members. Once you enter your rival's hood, double check their profile and check their mafia's attack and defense strength as well.
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Look at the "total item attack and defense" points and compare it to yours. You can find your stats at the bottom, just above your neighbor's list. The number of mafia members, your attack and defense stats will help you decide whether you should continue and rob or fight with your chosen rival. If yours is higher overall, then you'll sure to win.
Take note that not all rival hoods can be robbed. You'll only see the "rob" indicator if their buildings are ready to be collected.
The Empire Times
This is where you'll find any rivals who stopped by your neighborhood, whether you've been robbed or fought with them during your absence.
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Featured items from the store will also be shown, which you can purchase for Facebook credits. New areas will be announced as well.
Crime City is a Facebook game that lets you take command of your own hood and build your career within the crime world. Open up businesses to collect money, commit crimes to earn rewards and respect, increase your wealth and influence to be the best mafia lord in the city. These are just a few of the things you can do to get started playing Crime City by referring to this quick start guide.
Build your Hood
Your hood is your neighborhood where you construct buildings to help you collect resources and materials to do crimes in several locations. When you start in the game, you'll have your own steel mill and get to build your first business, a laundromat. Use these buildings to jump start your career in crime to support you in the list of jobs needed to be accomplished.
As you progress through the game, you'll need more cash to buy equipment and vehicles to attain goals. Expand your hood by constructing more buildings. Go and click on the store icon and you are presented with 3 types of buildings.
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The first two is what you'll need. Money buildings provide you with cash, which you can collect at certain periods. Some need resources for it to be completed, such as paint, concrete blocks or drills. Ask help from your mafia members and friends for them to send it over.
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Resource buildings provide energy and steel. There is no urgent need to build another steel mill at earlier stages since you will have enough to construct your other buildings. For energy, the coffee shop is a must. It will help you finish more jobs when your energy runs out.
Special buildings are beneficial but only if you're willing to spend some real money and credits to get ahead of your rivals.
The rest are for decorative purposes. Having roads, adding trees and road signs will make your neighborhood more "city friendly". Don't forget to expand your hood to make room for more buildings.
Currency and Resources
There are 3 main currencies you need to collect in order to progress through the game.
Money (cash)
Diamonds
Respect
Money is needed to purchase items in the store. You can collect them from doing jobs and buildings you've constructed in your hood. You can also get money from rivals when you fight and rob their hood. You'll get more of it when you finish goals and level up.
Diamonds are used to purchase equipment such as armor, vehicles, and weapons. You gain them by finishing jobs, robbing rivals and attaining goals. The bigger the jobs, the more diamonds you earn.
Respect is gained when you fight and rob rivals. This is also needed for items in the store.
Energy is the most important resource you'll need. The more you have and increase its maximum level through skill points, you'll be able to finish more jobs.
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You can gain energy through time by waiting, collecting it from resource buildings, visiting your mafia members and doing jobs.
Steel is needed to construct some buildings in your hood. You can collect it from the steel factory or when visiting mafia members.
Job Preparation and Completion
At earlier levels, jobs are easy to accomplish. You'll need few energy points and equipment needed are cheap. But, as your progress, jobs will take several steps to accomplish.
To complete jobs, it's best to follow the story line and accomplish the list of goals that appear.
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All goals will give you a list of tasks to do at each location. You can click on the links within the window to make it easier for you to proceed to the place. Some jobs will entail you to deal with buildings and some to interact with other people (avatars). To aid you on what needs to be done, look around and you'll see green arrows on top of buildings and people.
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These are job indicators. Hover your mouse over each to know how much energy and number of steps are needed to accomplish the job. Clicking on it will sometimes reveal the equipment required for the job. If you have enough resources, go ahead and purchase it.
For jobs that take a lot of steps, your energy level might not be enough to finish it in one go. A tip here is to go to your hood and collect energy from your coffee shop. You can also visit your mafia members. You'll get 20 energy points for every visit.
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Location Mastery for Skill Points
It's recommended, not only for goal purposes, but to gain skill points, to master each location. At the bottom, just above your neighbor's list, you'll see a bar with a number beside it. A yellow arrow is also shown. This is your mastery bar that indicates your mastery level for each location.
By clicking on the arrow, it will show yellow arrows that will indicate all the jobs you need to complete to master one level. Take note that these arrows are hidden by default.
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You can opt to do the jobs to gain rewards. It is recommended to wait for it to appear on the goal's list so you can get that extra goal bonus. You can also go back to the location to increase your mastery level and you'll get more rewards for each job.
Each time you master each location, you'll get 1 skill point to use to increase your skills within your profile.
Collections and Getting Busted
As mentioned, constructing more buildings in your hood will be beneficial for you to gain more money and energy.
Take note that each building has an "expiry" date (or time). The faster you can collect from it, the shorter grace period you have until the cops bust your building. The longer you wait before you collect, the more money you will lose.
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You'll know if your building has been busted if you see an image of a police car within the collect bubble.
Upgrade Buildings
Improving your buildings will increase the number of rewards you'll get. Upgrade the laundromat to the highest level as soon as you can. This will help you accumulate cash to purchase items.
The coffee shop is another key building you need to upgrade. The more energy you can collect every time it is ready, the quicker you can finish a job.
Rob and Fight Against Rivals
Fight against your rivals and rob their buildings. This will give you instant rewards.
When you visit the rival's list, the sure way to win is to pick someone who has less mafia members. Once you enter your rival's hood, double check their profile and check their mafia's attack and defense strength as well.
crime city cheats
Look at the "total item attack and defense" points and compare it to yours. You can find your stats at the bottom, just above your neighbor's list. The number of mafia members, your attack and defense stats will help you decide whether you should continue and rob or fight with your chosen rival. If yours is higher overall, then you'll sure to win.
Take note that not all rival hoods can be robbed. You'll only see the "rob" indicator if their buildings are ready to be collected.
The Empire Times
This is where you'll find any rivals who stopped by your neighborhood, whether you've been robbed or fought with them during your absence.
crime city cheats
Featured items from the store will also be shown, which you can purchase for Facebook credits. New areas will be announced as well.
FrontierVille Mystery Reindeer Crate: Collect all three to find Rudolf
Mystery Reindeer Crate
It looks like Zynga has decided to join in the reindeer games this holiday season by introducing the Reindeer Mystery Crate to FrontierVille for just the remainder of December. For only 15 more days, you'll be able to buy this limited edition Mystery Animal Crate for 30 Horseshoes, or about $4, with a chance at one of three different reindeer. Inside the most festive box will either be a Brown, Gray or White Reindeer equipped with bells, reins and ready to go.
Even the White Reindeer has a red nose, so let that serve as Rudolf's unofficial cameo on the homestead. Unfortunately, there's currently no option to buy a single reindeer like with most Mystery Animal Crates. So, act fast and do whatever luck-conjuring rituals you have up your sleeves to get the Mystery Reindeer you desire by Dec. 31 when these magical bucks are set to disappear for good.
It looks like Zynga has decided to join in the reindeer games this holiday season by introducing the Reindeer Mystery Crate to FrontierVille for just the remainder of December. For only 15 more days, you'll be able to buy this limited edition Mystery Animal Crate for 30 Horseshoes, or about $4, with a chance at one of three different reindeer. Inside the most festive box will either be a Brown, Gray or White Reindeer equipped with bells, reins and ready to go.
Even the White Reindeer has a red nose, so let that serve as Rudolf's unofficial cameo on the homestead. Unfortunately, there's currently no option to buy a single reindeer like with most Mystery Animal Crates. So, act fast and do whatever luck-conjuring rituals you have up your sleeves to get the Mystery Reindeer you desire by Dec. 31 when these magical bucks are set to disappear for good.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
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?
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?
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.
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.
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.
"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.
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.
"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.
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.
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.
Monday, January 9, 2012
Facebook temporarily stops games from accessing phone numbers and addresses
Well, it looks like you're safe... for now. All Facebook reports that due to (expectantly) unsavory feedback over the weekend as a result of the recent privacy changes to Facebook applications, the functionality has been disabled for the time being. That means games will not be able to access your phone number or address until Facebook reinstates the function. Why they've introduced this functionality at all is beyond me (but I have a hunch), but this is what the company had to say in an official blog post last night:
Over the weekend, we got some useful feedback that we could make people more clearly aware of when they are granting access to this data. We agree, and we are making changes to help ensure you only share this information when you intend to do so. We'll be working to launch these updates as soon as possible, and will be temporarily disabling this feature until those changes are ready. We look forward to re-enabling this improved feature in the next few weeks.
Before making the above statement, the Facebook team mentioned that it has made accepting the terms of applications and games an explicit process. They also hinted toward the purpose for the change and wrote, "With this change, you could, for example, easily share your address and mobile phone with a shopping site to streamline the checkout process, or sign up for up-to-the-minute alerts on special deals directly to your mobile phone."
In other words, it's for advertising and marketing purposes. (Did you really expect anything else?) According to Facebook, this feature isn't going away, it's just going through some "changes." So, stay tuned for when it finally does go live once again and check out our guide on how to prepare for it.
Obviously, most of you probably believe that this change shouldn't be reinstated period, but that's just wishful thinking. So, how do you think, if at all, Facebook can bring back the feature while appeasing to both the dissenters (us) and the loyalists (the advertisers)?
Over the weekend, we got some useful feedback that we could make people more clearly aware of when they are granting access to this data. We agree, and we are making changes to help ensure you only share this information when you intend to do so. We'll be working to launch these updates as soon as possible, and will be temporarily disabling this feature until those changes are ready. We look forward to re-enabling this improved feature in the next few weeks.
Before making the above statement, the Facebook team mentioned that it has made accepting the terms of applications and games an explicit process. They also hinted toward the purpose for the change and wrote, "With this change, you could, for example, easily share your address and mobile phone with a shopping site to streamline the checkout process, or sign up for up-to-the-minute alerts on special deals directly to your mobile phone."
In other words, it's for advertising and marketing purposes. (Did you really expect anything else?) According to Facebook, this feature isn't going away, it's just going through some "changes." So, stay tuned for when it finally does go live once again and check out our guide on how to prepare for it.
Obviously, most of you probably believe that this change shouldn't be reinstated period, but that's just wishful thinking. So, how do you think, if at all, Facebook can bring back the feature while appeasing to both the dissenters (us) and the loyalists (the advertisers)?
Playfish infographic shows off its numbers and has some fun
Ever wondered how many social gamers it would take to fill, say, England? Probably not, but according to Playfish, its entire player base of 55 million could fill the country with some overflowing into the English Channel and surrounding ocean. The social game developer recently released a neat infographic, titled "Playfish in Numbers." It reveals some entertaining factoids surrounding the metrics it has measured across its games including Pet Society, Restaurant City and Madden NFL Superstars.
For instance, Playfish claims that Madden NFL Superstars' 2.2 million quarterbacks (teams created) could roughly fill Houston, Texas. (That's entirely too much testosterone for one city to handle.) There are plenty more facts like these in the image that spans several mouse scrolls, but they're largely just to brag--and rightfully so--with interesting did-you-know facts. Come to think of it, this bears a striking resemblance to the informative infographic LOLapps recently published surrounding Ravenwood Fair. (Now, why hasn't Zynga published one of these?)
Find the full infographic behind the break.
Playfish in Numbers full
For instance, Playfish claims that Madden NFL Superstars' 2.2 million quarterbacks (teams created) could roughly fill Houston, Texas. (That's entirely too much testosterone for one city to handle.) There are plenty more facts like these in the image that spans several mouse scrolls, but they're largely just to brag--and rightfully so--with interesting did-you-know facts. Come to think of it, this bears a striking resemblance to the informative infographic LOLapps recently published surrounding Ravenwood Fair. (Now, why hasn't Zynga published one of these?)
Find the full infographic behind the break.
Playfish in Numbers full
Pirates Saga on Facebook: Cutthroat PvP piracy is not for the weak
Pirates Saga on Facebook
There seems to be an interesting fascination with pirates on Facebook and in Facebook games. Players flocked to Pirates Ahoy! by Playfish before it all but died and now many reside in Mighty Pirates by CrowdStar. But Can't Stop Games wants in on the peg-legged action and has released Pirates Saga, its very own take on the pirate phenomenon. So, how is it different than other pirate games?
Well for starters, Pirates Saga is 100 percent real time gameplay, which includes other players. The game features a combat system that sometimes occurs regardless of whether you're ready. While this sounds like a load of fun--which it is--it also has its shortcomings.
Find our full impressions of Pirates Saga behind the cut.
Combat in Pirates Saga
In Pirates Saga, you're the captain of a ship reclaimed by the evil pirate Blackbeard after he killed your father in cold blood and left you prisoner aboard his ship. As soon as you escape, it's time to teach his raiders a lesson and find the treasure of Eldorado. The world of Pirates Saga is displayed isometrically in pseudo-3D as if it were on a map (literally), a nice touch for the artsy folks. Players are in constant control of their ship and will likely never touch down on land. Combat, exploration, everything is done from your vessel, which essentially serves as your avatar. As you progress in the game, you will be able to upgrade your crew members, which affect different skills like fishing, cannons and gathering. Not to mention that your ship can be upgraded as well through purchases using Gold and other salvaged materials.
The game's main method for progression is quests, somewhat of a staple in Facebook games now. These tasks will guide you along, offer bonus experience points and materials as well as add purpose to your overall journey. They will lead you into gathering resources from floating debris, collect fish from Hatcheries and put a dent into Blackbeard's fleet along the way. It should be mentioned that while everything in the game occurs in real time, you do have a finite amount of Energy that refills over time (another staple of Facebook games). Fortunately, combat does not consume Energy, but it will take chips from your ship's health that also regenerates over time.
World Map
While combating enemy ships, an action bar will appear with a customizable list of actions including your standard cannon shot, specialty shots that cost Gleemers (the game's paid currency) and miscellaneous items like health potions. Clicking one action will cause it to repeat indefinitely every few seconds until another action is chosen or you sail out of range from the enemy. But beware, other ships and players can attack you while you're in the middle of a fight, which some will see as a worthy challenge while others will see as a bother.
And as expansive, inventive and refreshingly entertaining as Pirates Saga is, this will be the game's most divisive feature. Although realistic, sailing into uncharted waters and far from island cities puts you at risk of attack from several enemies at all times. Sure, it's a fun challenge, but being preyed on by more experienced players or coming back to the game from making a sandwich only to find that your ship was sunk by a patrolling raider ship becomes tiresome.
Exploring in Pirates Saga
This cutthroat style of gameplay sure is true to what this time in history might have been like, but it also makes for quite a hardcore Facebook game. Not to mention that because everything occurs in real time (as well as how beautiful the game looks), Pirates Saga is a resource hog like none other. In short, Pirates Saga is one helluva Facebook game, but tread lightly for both your own casual enjoyment's (and your computer's) sake.
There seems to be an interesting fascination with pirates on Facebook and in Facebook games. Players flocked to Pirates Ahoy! by Playfish before it all but died and now many reside in Mighty Pirates by CrowdStar. But Can't Stop Games wants in on the peg-legged action and has released Pirates Saga, its very own take on the pirate phenomenon. So, how is it different than other pirate games?
Well for starters, Pirates Saga is 100 percent real time gameplay, which includes other players. The game features a combat system that sometimes occurs regardless of whether you're ready. While this sounds like a load of fun--which it is--it also has its shortcomings.
Find our full impressions of Pirates Saga behind the cut.
Combat in Pirates Saga
In Pirates Saga, you're the captain of a ship reclaimed by the evil pirate Blackbeard after he killed your father in cold blood and left you prisoner aboard his ship. As soon as you escape, it's time to teach his raiders a lesson and find the treasure of Eldorado. The world of Pirates Saga is displayed isometrically in pseudo-3D as if it were on a map (literally), a nice touch for the artsy folks. Players are in constant control of their ship and will likely never touch down on land. Combat, exploration, everything is done from your vessel, which essentially serves as your avatar. As you progress in the game, you will be able to upgrade your crew members, which affect different skills like fishing, cannons and gathering. Not to mention that your ship can be upgraded as well through purchases using Gold and other salvaged materials.
The game's main method for progression is quests, somewhat of a staple in Facebook games now. These tasks will guide you along, offer bonus experience points and materials as well as add purpose to your overall journey. They will lead you into gathering resources from floating debris, collect fish from Hatcheries and put a dent into Blackbeard's fleet along the way. It should be mentioned that while everything in the game occurs in real time, you do have a finite amount of Energy that refills over time (another staple of Facebook games). Fortunately, combat does not consume Energy, but it will take chips from your ship's health that also regenerates over time.
World Map
While combating enemy ships, an action bar will appear with a customizable list of actions including your standard cannon shot, specialty shots that cost Gleemers (the game's paid currency) and miscellaneous items like health potions. Clicking one action will cause it to repeat indefinitely every few seconds until another action is chosen or you sail out of range from the enemy. But beware, other ships and players can attack you while you're in the middle of a fight, which some will see as a worthy challenge while others will see as a bother.
And as expansive, inventive and refreshingly entertaining as Pirates Saga is, this will be the game's most divisive feature. Although realistic, sailing into uncharted waters and far from island cities puts you at risk of attack from several enemies at all times. Sure, it's a fun challenge, but being preyed on by more experienced players or coming back to the game from making a sandwich only to find that your ship was sunk by a patrolling raider ship becomes tiresome.
Exploring in Pirates Saga
This cutthroat style of gameplay sure is true to what this time in history might have been like, but it also makes for quite a hardcore Facebook game. Not to mention that because everything occurs in real time (as well as how beautiful the game looks), Pirates Saga is a resource hog like none other. In short, Pirates Saga is one helluva Facebook game, but tread lightly for both your own casual enjoyment's (and your computer's) sake.
Zynga lobbies for FarmVille subsidies in clever parody news piece
Something like this could probably really happen knowing the absurdity of the Internet -- parody technology news site TechPuma reports that Zynga has hired DC lobbying firm "Wendrick, Struggles, Bowdin and Lippinsky" to push for corn, cattle and fertilizer subsidies for FarmVille in an upcoming online food bill. Of course, nothing in this social game lobbying (get it?) story is real, but it sure does make for a good laugh, doesn't it?
Apparently, the bill was due for a vote in Congress on Jan. 15 to decide on online food quality issue and Facebook working conditions. TechPuma goes on to report that conditions are harsh on Facebook farms in FarmVille, forcing neighbors, family and friends to share labor while owners take breaks. (Those mouse clicks sure are rough on the wrist, boy. No, seriously.) The site mentions that because a majority of FarmVille workers reside outside of the U.S., Zynga may not even be eligible for subsidies.
According to TechPuma's coverage, Rep. Peter Welch, D-Vt will vote against the bill and said, "This is America, not some some third world country. We must pay our workers a fair wage and ensure that they have decent working conditions." It's one of the better FarmVille parodies I've seen and is written so well that those out of the know will probably interpret this as real. I can't imagine the amount of e-mails both Zynga and Capitol Hill are about the receive.
At least one person, Simon Dumenco, has had the mind to take the idea of FarmVille subsidies seriously. Last year, Dumenco wrote a piece for Advertising Age, suggesting that the U.S. government pay people not to play FarmVille in a bid to increase real world productivity and combat the recession.
Apparently, the bill was due for a vote in Congress on Jan. 15 to decide on online food quality issue and Facebook working conditions. TechPuma goes on to report that conditions are harsh on Facebook farms in FarmVille, forcing neighbors, family and friends to share labor while owners take breaks. (Those mouse clicks sure are rough on the wrist, boy. No, seriously.) The site mentions that because a majority of FarmVille workers reside outside of the U.S., Zynga may not even be eligible for subsidies.
According to TechPuma's coverage, Rep. Peter Welch, D-Vt will vote against the bill and said, "This is America, not some some third world country. We must pay our workers a fair wage and ensure that they have decent working conditions." It's one of the better FarmVille parodies I've seen and is written so well that those out of the know will probably interpret this as real. I can't imagine the amount of e-mails both Zynga and Capitol Hill are about the receive.
At least one person, Simon Dumenco, has had the mind to take the idea of FarmVille subsidies seriously. Last year, Dumenco wrote a piece for Advertising Age, suggesting that the U.S. government pay people not to play FarmVille in a bid to increase real world productivity and combat the recession.
Supermodel Facebook game by LOLapps gets the axe Jan. 31
Well, it was fun while it lasted, right? LOLapps has decided that Supermodel: The Game had a good run on Facebook and will shut down this Jan. 31. The game, which launched in April 2010, has held onto just over one thousand players since its release. Upon logging into the game, players will find a somber message from the developers informing them that the game will no longer be playable by the end of the month. The team thanks its players, but reminds them that any purchases made in the game are non-refundable regardless of it shutting down.
It's unfortunate that when compared to the studio's current hit, Ravenwood Fair, Supermodel is expectantly a wasteland.Taking on the gameplay model of games like Zynga's Mafia Wars, Supermodel was essentially a roleplaying game in which players assumed the role of a supermodel. Just like the games that inspired it, players can focus on a series of statistics to level up and take the game's various tasks.
Unfortunately, the game amounts to a list of buttons to click with even less animation than Mafia Wars and the like. In it's prime, Supermodel enjoyed sponsorships from major brands like Barbie, Modelina, and Express through virtual goods and in-game advertising, but sadly just couldn't garner the player base to make those investments worthwhile. LOLapps official reasoning for closing down the game? "Going forward we feel this is the right choice as it will allow to pour ourselves into future projects with the aim of creating fresher, deeper gameplay experiences." Let's just hope the studios next game can both avoid controversy and emulate Ravenwood Fair's success.
It's unfortunate that when compared to the studio's current hit, Ravenwood Fair, Supermodel is expectantly a wasteland.Taking on the gameplay model of games like Zynga's Mafia Wars, Supermodel was essentially a roleplaying game in which players assumed the role of a supermodel. Just like the games that inspired it, players can focus on a series of statistics to level up and take the game's various tasks.
Unfortunately, the game amounts to a list of buttons to click with even less animation than Mafia Wars and the like. In it's prime, Supermodel enjoyed sponsorships from major brands like Barbie, Modelina, and Express through virtual goods and in-game advertising, but sadly just couldn't garner the player base to make those investments worthwhile. LOLapps official reasoning for closing down the game? "Going forward we feel this is the right choice as it will allow to pour ourselves into future projects with the aim of creating fresher, deeper gameplay experiences." Let's just hope the studios next game can both avoid controversy and emulate Ravenwood Fair's success.
Friday, January 6, 2012
FarmVille Scam Alert! Do not click on 'Teacup Pig' News Feed Posts
Alright, this is just getting to be ridiculous. Another FarmVille scam has appeared in several players' Facebook News Feeds, according to FarmVille Freak. This time it involves giving away a Teacup Pig for free and is likely the work of the same scam artist who posted similar phony posts like the Knight Steed Foal and Kung Fu Duck. While the initial post looks strikingly similar to the real deal, it's far from legit.
Clicking on the offer will take you to a page that isn't even the real FarmVille, but a page titled "FarmVille Bonus." No such page exists officially through Zynga. This is clearly a ploy by someone looking to get your information for spamming purposes or worse. Whatever you do, do not click on this News Feed post and warn your FarmVille friends about this scam.
FarmVille phony bonus page
Remember, only accept News Feed posts when you are absolutely sure they are legit. Carefully examine these posts before clicking through--poorly drawn graphics and typos are dead giveaways for phony posts. If you've fallen for one before, be sure to scan your computer for malware with virus scanning software and to change your Facebook password and other private information.
[Image Credit: FarmVille Freak]
Have you seen this scam circulating the News Feeds? What are your personal tips for avoiding or detecting scams?
Clicking on the offer will take you to a page that isn't even the real FarmVille, but a page titled "FarmVille Bonus." No such page exists officially through Zynga. This is clearly a ploy by someone looking to get your information for spamming purposes or worse. Whatever you do, do not click on this News Feed post and warn your FarmVille friends about this scam.
FarmVille phony bonus page
Remember, only accept News Feed posts when you are absolutely sure they are legit. Carefully examine these posts before clicking through--poorly drawn graphics and typos are dead giveaways for phony posts. If you've fallen for one before, be sure to scan your computer for malware with virus scanning software and to change your Facebook password and other private information.
[Image Credit: FarmVille Freak]
Have you seen this scam circulating the News Feeds? What are your personal tips for avoiding or detecting scams?
Poll: Should Zynga's raunchy FrontierVille wall posts go away?
You've all surely seen Zynga's suggestive FrontierVille News Feed posts. If you've yet to witness the hilarity, we even covered the madness a while back. However, there are several forum members that have enough with the lewd messages. So much so that forum user flapdoodle21 (what does that even mean?) has claimed they will not play any Zynga games until these messages are removed. While many agree with this disgruntled pioneer's sentiment, an equal amount claim that it's not such a big and flapdoodle21 (I just had to say it one more time) needs to lighten. So, we come to you, fine Games.com readers for your two Horseshoes:
Should Zynga cut the raunchy FrontierVille posts?
Absolutely! No one needs to see this sinful filth!Lighten up, will ya people? They're just (hilarious) play on word jokes.Those News Feed posts have funny words on them? I just click away.
VoteView ResultsShare ThisPolldaddy.com
Should Zynga cut the raunchy FrontierVille posts?
Absolutely! No one needs to see this sinful filth!Lighten up, will ya people? They're just (hilarious) play on word jokes.Those News Feed posts have funny words on them? I just click away.
VoteView ResultsShare ThisPolldaddy.com
CityVille Patrol: Cops 'n' robbers will take to the streets soon
Cops 'n' robbers will be headed to CityVille soon, as per this pop-up that appeared while I was visiting my virtual city today. There's not a lot of details on what this will entail, other than the hint that 'heroics with friends' will keep the bad guys away. I'm taking that to mean that you'll need to rely on your CVille pals to keep your streets free of crime.
I also like how the criminals are called 'mischievous characters' and based on their mug shots -- they look like the friendliest would-be convicts we've ever seen. Now that I'm thinking about it -- that's also the happiest cop I've ever seen as well. Move over Disneyland -- CityVille is now the happiest place on Earth.
I also like how the criminals are called 'mischievous characters' and based on their mug shots -- they look like the friendliest would-be convicts we've ever seen. Now that I'm thinking about it -- that's also the happiest cop I've ever seen as well. Move over Disneyland -- CityVille is now the happiest place on Earth.
Rumor: Will Zynga remove FarmVille Collections?
After over a year of being in FarmVille, Collections might be taken away from the game, a forum thread rumor suggests. Players are asking around on the FarmVille forums whether this feature might be removed from the farm after a user posted the above image. It shows the Needlepoint, an item from one of the game's permanent Collections, and reads, "Hurry to find more Needlepoint items, the Country Kitsch Collection won't be here for--"
The message within the pop-up cuts off after that. Oddly enough, the image of the Needlepoint is not found on the pop-up, but is replaced by a white box, which could lead skeptics to believe this is a hoax. However, this could just as easily be a loading glitch. FarmVille community manager Stumpgrinder chimed in with, "I haven't heard about these being withdrawn... I think that message has been up there for awhile though."
Bugs Collection
While it would be wise to trust a community manager, his response doesn't explain the far clearer image above. This time, a player found this pop-up claiming that another permanent Collection, the Bugs Collection, would be going away soon as well. Still fake? You decide, but you might want to turn in any Collections you have lying around before the feature potentially goes kaput.
[Image Credit: oneraven and Amber3]
Have you seen similar messages appear in your game? Why would Zynga remove this feature after an entire year?
The message within the pop-up cuts off after that. Oddly enough, the image of the Needlepoint is not found on the pop-up, but is replaced by a white box, which could lead skeptics to believe this is a hoax. However, this could just as easily be a loading glitch. FarmVille community manager Stumpgrinder chimed in with, "I haven't heard about these being withdrawn... I think that message has been up there for awhile though."
Bugs Collection
While it would be wise to trust a community manager, his response doesn't explain the far clearer image above. This time, a player found this pop-up claiming that another permanent Collection, the Bugs Collection, would be going away soon as well. Still fake? You decide, but you might want to turn in any Collections you have lying around before the feature potentially goes kaput.
[Image Credit: oneraven and Amber3]
Have you seen similar messages appear in your game? Why would Zynga remove this feature after an entire year?
FarmVille scam alert: fake Lucky Penny news feed posts
We're not sure what's going on, but a massive number of FarmVille scams are currently circulating the news feeds. The latest one takes advantage of players who are trying to collect Lucky Pennies for their Wishing Wells. The scam looks very similar to a legitimate FarmVille wall post in that the image and the text are very similar, however the "Get Lucky" link leads players to a different fanpage in an effort to get them to "like" the page.
The best ways to identify which ones of these are spam to first to check the text: the above gray text misspells the word "wishing" as "wisshing". The second way is to hover over the "Get Lucky" link to see where it will take you. In this case, you can see that instead of taking you to the FarmVille application (http://apps.facebook.com/onthefarm/), the link leads to a "FarmVille Bonus" fan page.
Another of these scams says it's by "FarmVille Latest" and takes you to a FarmVille Neighbors Club fanpage:
Always double check where a news feed post is going to take you. Remember there are no third-party fan pages that have access to give out Lucky Pennies, or any FarmVille item. If it isn't the official FarmVille application, it isn't legitimate.
The best ways to identify which ones of these are spam to first to check the text: the above gray text misspells the word "wishing" as "wisshing". The second way is to hover over the "Get Lucky" link to see where it will take you. In this case, you can see that instead of taking you to the FarmVille application (http://apps.facebook.com/onthefarm/), the link leads to a "FarmVille Bonus" fan page.
Another of these scams says it's by "FarmVille Latest" and takes you to a FarmVille Neighbors Club fanpage:
Always double check where a news feed post is going to take you. Remember there are no third-party fan pages that have access to give out Lucky Pennies, or any FarmVille item. If it isn't the official FarmVille application, it isn't legitimate.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
FarmVille English Countryside Cheats and Tips: A new travelers guide
With FarmVille English Countryside (EC) inching closer, it's time to give you unsuspecting farmers a crash course in getting there for when the time comes. Well, at least we can tell what we know based on extensive previews from Zynga. We already know that Duke will crash land on your farm sometime soon, but now we have an even better idea of what to do once we touch down in England.
1. Fix and Send off the Airship
In order to fix Duke's Airship once it crashes, players will have to gather supplies from the farm. After fixing the Airship, you will be tasked with throwing a party. The party will function much like the New Year's Ball party did in the original FarmVille, so you will have to invite several guests to the shindig. Once you've reached the final level, you will have unlocked access to the English Countryside.
2. A not-so-easy landing
Once you arrive in EC, you'll be greeted by several characters including Lily, Duke and more. It will become immediately apparent that this expansion is far more story-driven than FarmVille ever has been. However, participating in the storyline isn't mandatory nor does is cost Energy. In fact, Energy doesn't exist in EC just as it doesn't in the original game. But we imagine you'll be enticed by the Goals' rewards to complete them.
Quest Map
3. Questing made easy
You should have by now noticed that EC is in shambles, and it's up to you to restore this decrepit farm to its former glory. This is done through the game's list of Goals that are represented through an interactive map. It's here that players will be able to track their progress, see what's ahead and their friends' position in the storyline in order to help them.
4. Almost everything will come with you
When you touch down in EC, take a look at your storage--it's not there! Don't be alarmed, this is intended, unfortunately. While your Gift Boxes are linked between games, your stored items are not. Players will likely receive most of their rewards in EC through the Gift Box, so that players have the choice of where to stick things like new decorations and Mastery signs.
[Source: FarmVille Freak]
Check out the rest of our English Countryside coverage right here.
How have you prepared for traveling to the English Countryside? Do you have any suggestions for travel preparations?
1. Fix and Send off the Airship
In order to fix Duke's Airship once it crashes, players will have to gather supplies from the farm. After fixing the Airship, you will be tasked with throwing a party. The party will function much like the New Year's Ball party did in the original FarmVille, so you will have to invite several guests to the shindig. Once you've reached the final level, you will have unlocked access to the English Countryside.
2. A not-so-easy landing
Once you arrive in EC, you'll be greeted by several characters including Lily, Duke and more. It will become immediately apparent that this expansion is far more story-driven than FarmVille ever has been. However, participating in the storyline isn't mandatory nor does is cost Energy. In fact, Energy doesn't exist in EC just as it doesn't in the original game. But we imagine you'll be enticed by the Goals' rewards to complete them.
Quest Map
3. Questing made easy
You should have by now noticed that EC is in shambles, and it's up to you to restore this decrepit farm to its former glory. This is done through the game's list of Goals that are represented through an interactive map. It's here that players will be able to track their progress, see what's ahead and their friends' position in the storyline in order to help them.
4. Almost everything will come with you
When you touch down in EC, take a look at your storage--it's not there! Don't be alarmed, this is intended, unfortunately. While your Gift Boxes are linked between games, your stored items are not. Players will likely receive most of their rewards in EC through the Gift Box, so that players have the choice of where to stick things like new decorations and Mastery signs.
[Source: FarmVille Freak]
Check out the rest of our English Countryside coverage right here.
How have you prepared for traveling to the English Countryside? Do you have any suggestions for travel preparations?
Quote of the Moment: 'Nintendo president Iwata is wrong about social games'
Iwata-san has done an incredible job rebuilding Nintendo over the last few years. He is a great leader of that company, but in this particular case he is wrong. He is mistaken if [he thinks] this is some kind of fad that will go away. Social networks, as a way of powering our game and entertainment choices, is here to stay.
Former Sony Worldwide Studios boss Phil Harrison said this in an interview with IndustryGamers regarding Nintendo president Satoru Iwata's harsh words for social game creators during his Game Developers Conference keynote speech this month. Iwata believes that mobile and social games could diminish "high value" games, or $50 to $60 retail games. How, you ask? The Nintendo commander-in-chief said that social and mobile games are focused more on quantity than quality, amassing and copying software to increase revenue. If Iwata has seen what's in the works for iOS or some recent Facebook games, then his issue appears to be more with price points than anything.
[Via GamesIndustry.biz]
[Image Credit: Nsider 2]
What do you think about Iwata's opinion of social game developers? How do you think Nintendo will fare continuing its retail-centric strategy?
Former Sony Worldwide Studios boss Phil Harrison said this in an interview with IndustryGamers regarding Nintendo president Satoru Iwata's harsh words for social game creators during his Game Developers Conference keynote speech this month. Iwata believes that mobile and social games could diminish "high value" games, or $50 to $60 retail games. How, you ask? The Nintendo commander-in-chief said that social and mobile games are focused more on quantity than quality, amassing and copying software to increase revenue. If Iwata has seen what's in the works for iOS or some recent Facebook games, then his issue appears to be more with price points than anything.
[Via GamesIndustry.biz]
[Image Credit: Nsider 2]
What do you think about Iwata's opinion of social game developers? How do you think Nintendo will fare continuing its retail-centric strategy?
Playfish joins Japan relief effort with Mercy Corps donation program [Updated]
Finally, another social game developer has decided to use its immense resources for good. Playfish announced today that it has joined forces with Mercy Corps and their partner, Peace Winds Japan, to run a donation program. Through the program, Playfish will give 100 percent of its proceeds to Mercy Corps to provide the Japanese with "balloon shelters to accommodate up to 600 people; large emergency tents; clean water, food and blankets," according to the company.
Throughout the week, Playfish will add items to its games for purchase and donate 100 percent of those proceeds to Mercy Corps. Currently, the Garden of Hope item is available in Restaurant City, but more games will receive donation items this week including a "Support Japan" bundle in Pet Society, "Japan Elite Transfers" in FIFA Superstars, and a "Red Japanese Pagoda" in Monopoly Millionaires.
There is a link beneath most Playfish games leading to the donation website. Playfish is handling the situation differently than Zynga's, which allowed players to donate through playing its games (and buying items) immediately. Using this method, the company has already raised $1 million. Will Playfish be able to produce the same contribution with its week-long event?
That's unlikely, but keep in mind that this is far from a competition. The fact that Playfish has made the gesture is respectable, but what prevented the company from employing the same strategy? My guess is that it was a matter of how much time is left to make a contribution with impact, which lead to this week-long event. Regardless, every donation helps--here's your chance, Playfish fans.
Do you intend on donating to the Japan relief effort through Playfish? How successful do you think the company will be using this method?
Throughout the week, Playfish will add items to its games for purchase and donate 100 percent of those proceeds to Mercy Corps. Currently, the Garden of Hope item is available in Restaurant City, but more games will receive donation items this week including a "Support Japan" bundle in Pet Society, "Japan Elite Transfers" in FIFA Superstars, and a "Red Japanese Pagoda" in Monopoly Millionaires.
There is a link beneath most Playfish games leading to the donation website. Playfish is handling the situation differently than Zynga's, which allowed players to donate through playing its games (and buying items) immediately. Using this method, the company has already raised $1 million. Will Playfish be able to produce the same contribution with its week-long event?
That's unlikely, but keep in mind that this is far from a competition. The fact that Playfish has made the gesture is respectable, but what prevented the company from employing the same strategy? My guess is that it was a matter of how much time is left to make a contribution with impact, which lead to this week-long event. Regardless, every donation helps--here's your chance, Playfish fans.
Do you intend on donating to the Japan relief effort through Playfish? How successful do you think the company will be using this method?
Games For iPad: Fifty Favorites
iPad 2 is all the rage, with long lines across the country greeting customers eager to pick up Apple's newest gadget. Since gaming is such a hot activity and the iPad is one of the coolest devices to play games on, we tapped our friends at Modojo to give us a list of their favorite games for iPad.
Here are the five top iPad games you need to purchase right now to go along with that sexy tablet, and if you're a serious gamer, head over to Modojo for forty-five more top games for iPad.
Angry Birds Seasons HD [Buy it]
Don't ignore the Angry Birds phenomenon. Resistance is futile. Just embrace it and kiss your social life goodbye. This delightful strategy game challenges you to launch teams of ticked off birds towards a bunch of pigs, where the goal is to not only destroy the evil swine, but also cause massive property damage.
Flight Control HD [Buy it]
The phrase, "an oldie but a goodie" certainly applies to Firemint's outstanding strategy game that casts you as a flight controller charged with guiding planes to their respective hangars. An elegant presentation, user-friendly control scheme and catchy music make this a must play.
Infinity Blade [Buy it]
Pick up a sword and then embark upon a dangerous quest full of monsters and mayhem, where you attempt to avenge your father (and his father's father, and so on and so forth) by slaying the nefarious God King. A plethora of weapons, addictive gameplay (think Punch-Out!! with monsters) and some of the best graphics on iPad will keep you hooked for hours.
Real Racing HD [Buy it]
You'll never see Sony's Gran Turismo on the iPad and you'll never miss it, thanks to Real Racing HD. This simulation heavy racer looks phenomenal stretched across that glorious screen, with realistic graphics that pull you into each thrilling event. Beyond that, there's a 76-mission career mode, 48 real world cars, local and online multiplayer, 12 tracks, multiple camera views and more. You'll love it.
Then again, perhaps you'd rather go with the sequel, Real Racing 2 HD, which features iPad 2 specific features. [Buy it]
Asphalt 6: Adrenaline HD [Buy it]
If you prefer arcade style racing, Asphalt 6 delivers. Gameloft's latest entry in its respected series is pure eye candy, from the slick looking rides to the colorful courses inspired by locations around the world. In addition, it's a blast to play, with powerful nitro boosts, shortcuts and a variety of different modes that'll keep you coming back for more.
Thanks Modojo for your picks, and once you're done with these five games, click over for forty-five more Games for iPad that you need to have!
Here are the five top iPad games you need to purchase right now to go along with that sexy tablet, and if you're a serious gamer, head over to Modojo for forty-five more top games for iPad.
Angry Birds Seasons HD [Buy it]
Don't ignore the Angry Birds phenomenon. Resistance is futile. Just embrace it and kiss your social life goodbye. This delightful strategy game challenges you to launch teams of ticked off birds towards a bunch of pigs, where the goal is to not only destroy the evil swine, but also cause massive property damage.
Flight Control HD [Buy it]
The phrase, "an oldie but a goodie" certainly applies to Firemint's outstanding strategy game that casts you as a flight controller charged with guiding planes to their respective hangars. An elegant presentation, user-friendly control scheme and catchy music make this a must play.
Infinity Blade [Buy it]
Pick up a sword and then embark upon a dangerous quest full of monsters and mayhem, where you attempt to avenge your father (and his father's father, and so on and so forth) by slaying the nefarious God King. A plethora of weapons, addictive gameplay (think Punch-Out!! with monsters) and some of the best graphics on iPad will keep you hooked for hours.
Real Racing HD [Buy it]
You'll never see Sony's Gran Turismo on the iPad and you'll never miss it, thanks to Real Racing HD. This simulation heavy racer looks phenomenal stretched across that glorious screen, with realistic graphics that pull you into each thrilling event. Beyond that, there's a 76-mission career mode, 48 real world cars, local and online multiplayer, 12 tracks, multiple camera views and more. You'll love it.
Then again, perhaps you'd rather go with the sequel, Real Racing 2 HD, which features iPad 2 specific features. [Buy it]
Asphalt 6: Adrenaline HD [Buy it]
If you prefer arcade style racing, Asphalt 6 delivers. Gameloft's latest entry in its respected series is pure eye candy, from the slick looking rides to the colorful courses inspired by locations around the world. In addition, it's a blast to play, with powerful nitro boosts, shortcuts and a variety of different modes that'll keep you coming back for more.
Thanks Modojo for your picks, and once you're done with these five games, click over for forty-five more Games for iPad that you need to have!
FrontierVille St. Patrick's Day Collection has a Pot of Gold at the end
Just in time, FrontierVille has decided to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. While you're out hunting Leprechauns, you'll also work to complete this St. Patrick's Day Collection by finding five items. The five items include a Penny Whistle, Pint Glass, Shamrock, Hurley Stick (nice reference, Zynga) and a Celtic Harp. For completing the Collection, players will receive their very own Pot of Gold. So, get to hunting those Leprechauns and hope that luck (couldn't help myself) is on your side.
Pot of Gold
[Source and Image Credit: FrontierVille Legend]
Have you seen this Collection in your game yet? What's your plan to complete it as quickly as possible?
Pot of Gold
[Source and Image Credit: FrontierVille Legend]
Have you seen this Collection in your game yet? What's your plan to complete it as quickly as possible?
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Buy Facebook Credits from Walmart, score sweet The Sims Social items
Sometimes, it's plenty worth it to step foot into a Walmart. EA and Playfish are working with Facebook to grant you some fun exclusive items in The Sims Social. Well, there is one catch: You're gonna' have to buy some Facebook Credits. We know, some of you might cringe at the thought of spending real money on digital products within a free game, but maybe hear the guys out.
From now through Dec. 26, 2011, if you pick up a $15 Facebook Credits gift card from Walmart, you'll receive one of three in-game items of your choice. While we don't know exactly what those items are just yet, we can imagine that they're pretty darn awesome. (Well, you are paying up 15 clams.)
To find a Walmart near you either look out the window, or head over to this page for a store locator. Just type in your zip code and you're good to go. And you'll know exactly which card to buy, because they'll, well, look like that. And what do you know--the Dec. 26, 2011 expiration date on this deal makes these cards quite the nifty stocking stuffer, no?
Have you ever bought in-game items for your favorite Facebook game? Would you ever buy them as a gift for a friend or loved one?
From now through Dec. 26, 2011, if you pick up a $15 Facebook Credits gift card from Walmart, you'll receive one of three in-game items of your choice. While we don't know exactly what those items are just yet, we can imagine that they're pretty darn awesome. (Well, you are paying up 15 clams.)
To find a Walmart near you either look out the window, or head over to this page for a store locator. Just type in your zip code and you're good to go. And you'll know exactly which card to buy, because they'll, well, look like that. And what do you know--the Dec. 26, 2011 expiration date on this deal makes these cards quite the nifty stocking stuffer, no?
Have you ever bought in-game items for your favorite Facebook game? Would you ever buy them as a gift for a friend or loved one?
The Sims Social finally gets spooky in The Ultimate Horror Movie Week
Look, last week in The Sims Social was a little too ... inspired for some of us when it comes to item themes. Thankfully, Playfish has brought the true meaning of Halloween to the game in The Ultimate Horror Movie Week. This week, a slew of items hit the in-game that embody the spirit of Halloween: really gory, disgusting and generally spooky decorations.
Take the MSS Doll of Doom for instance--that thing might just be too creepy to purchase altogether. Frankly, decking your pad out in all of these items, including the numerous wallpapers and windows, might scare your friends away. But without further delay, let's take a look at how much it might cost you to spook up the place:
MSS Zombie Plan
Costs: 300 Simoleons
House Value: 300
MSS Loose Connection
Costs: 10 SimCash
House Value: 1,500
MSS Doll of Doom
Costs:10 SimCash
House Value: 1,500
3 Fun; 3 Social
MSS Sink of Despair
Costs: 350 Simoleons
House Value: 250
5 Hygiene
MSS Hand of Hazard
Costs: 12 SimCash
House Value: 1,750
Metal Trapdoor
Costs: 375 Simoleons
House Value: 250
3 Fun; 3 Social
MSS Toilet of Relief
Costs: 400 Simoleons
House Value: 250
9 Bladder; -1 Hygiene
MSS Stool of Havoc
Costs: 200 Social Points
House Value: 400
Wooden Trap Door
Costs: 15 SimCash
House Value: 2,200
3 Fun; 3 Social
Necronomicon
Costs: 15 SimCash
House Value: 2,200
Side Table Prop
Costs: 250 Social Points
House Value: 550
MSS Chest of Horrors
Costs: 19 SimCash
House Value: 2,200
3 Fun; 3 Social
Axe Prop
Costs: 300 Social Points
House Value: 650
MSS Experiments
Costs: 300 Social Points
House Value: 650
3 Fun; 3 Social
MSS Mirror of Shame
Costs: 600 Simoleons
House Value: 450
19 Social; 11 Sleep
Creepy Window Prop
Costs: 600 Simoleons
House Value: 450
MSS Doomsday Plans
Costs: 350 Social Points
House Value: 800
Hoojamaflip Doll of Doom Experiments Haunted TV Hand of Hazard
Small Table Prop
Costs: 400 Social Points
House Value: 900
MSS Door of Death
Costs: 900 Simoleons
House Value: 800
MSS Well of Fear
Costs: 500 Social Points
House Value: 1,150
11 Social; -1 Bladder
Lab Barred Window
Costs: 500 Social Points
House Value: 1,150
MSS Shower of Chaos
Costs: 500 Social Points
House Value: 1,150
7 Hygiene
MSS Radio of the Dead
Costs: 35 SimCash
House Value: 5,150
3 Fun; 3 Social
Haunting Chair Prop
Costs: 35 SimCash
House Value: 5,150
Haunted items
Haunted Door Prop
Costs: 1,200 Simoleons
House Value: 1,250
MSS Desk of Evil
Costs: 1,250 Simoleons
House Value: 1,350
Haunting Sofa Prop
Costs: 45 SimCash
House Value: 6,650
3 Sleep
Haunted TV
Costs: 1,500 Simoleons
House Value: 1,550
7 Fun; 3 Social
MSS Lamp of Terror
Costs: 1,500 Simoleons
House Value: 1,550
Coffee Table Prop
Costs: 750 Social Points
House Value: 1,900
MSS Workbench
Costs: 1,800 Simoleons
House Value: 1,700
3 Fun
Haunted Desk
Costs: 2,500 Simoleons
House Value: 2,000
Poltergeist Bed Prop
Costs: 1,300 Social Points
House Value: 3,850
11 Sleep
Thingymajig
Costs: 1,400 Social Points
House Value: 100
19 Fun
Haunted Wardrobe Prop
Costs: 1,500
House Value: 4,300
This week's set of items also includes an MSS Hoojamaflip decoration that's worth 3,050 House Value and 11 Sleep, but it requires players to complete the timed Ghost Town quests to unlock. Of course, the majority of the super cool items cost SimCash to acquire. But at least there are a number of items worth Social Points and Simoleons to at least give the feeling that you're house has been reclaimed by the Jigsaw Killer for whatever reason. Isn't that Halloween is all about anyway?
Check out the rest of our Halloween 2011 coverage right here >
[Image Credit: Playfish]
Which of these in-game items have you picked up in The Sims Social to ring in Halloween? What else are you doing this holiday to celebrate?
Take the MSS Doll of Doom for instance--that thing might just be too creepy to purchase altogether. Frankly, decking your pad out in all of these items, including the numerous wallpapers and windows, might scare your friends away. But without further delay, let's take a look at how much it might cost you to spook up the place:
MSS Zombie Plan
Costs: 300 Simoleons
House Value: 300
MSS Loose Connection
Costs: 10 SimCash
House Value: 1,500
MSS Doll of Doom
Costs:10 SimCash
House Value: 1,500
3 Fun; 3 Social
MSS Sink of Despair
Costs: 350 Simoleons
House Value: 250
5 Hygiene
MSS Hand of Hazard
Costs: 12 SimCash
House Value: 1,750
Metal Trapdoor
Costs: 375 Simoleons
House Value: 250
3 Fun; 3 Social
MSS Toilet of Relief
Costs: 400 Simoleons
House Value: 250
9 Bladder; -1 Hygiene
MSS Stool of Havoc
Costs: 200 Social Points
House Value: 400
Wooden Trap Door
Costs: 15 SimCash
House Value: 2,200
3 Fun; 3 Social
Necronomicon
Costs: 15 SimCash
House Value: 2,200
Side Table Prop
Costs: 250 Social Points
House Value: 550
MSS Chest of Horrors
Costs: 19 SimCash
House Value: 2,200
3 Fun; 3 Social
Axe Prop
Costs: 300 Social Points
House Value: 650
MSS Experiments
Costs: 300 Social Points
House Value: 650
3 Fun; 3 Social
MSS Mirror of Shame
Costs: 600 Simoleons
House Value: 450
19 Social; 11 Sleep
Creepy Window Prop
Costs: 600 Simoleons
House Value: 450
MSS Doomsday Plans
Costs: 350 Social Points
House Value: 800
Hoojamaflip Doll of Doom Experiments Haunted TV Hand of Hazard
Small Table Prop
Costs: 400 Social Points
House Value: 900
MSS Door of Death
Costs: 900 Simoleons
House Value: 800
MSS Well of Fear
Costs: 500 Social Points
House Value: 1,150
11 Social; -1 Bladder
Lab Barred Window
Costs: 500 Social Points
House Value: 1,150
MSS Shower of Chaos
Costs: 500 Social Points
House Value: 1,150
7 Hygiene
MSS Radio of the Dead
Costs: 35 SimCash
House Value: 5,150
3 Fun; 3 Social
Haunting Chair Prop
Costs: 35 SimCash
House Value: 5,150
Haunted items
Haunted Door Prop
Costs: 1,200 Simoleons
House Value: 1,250
MSS Desk of Evil
Costs: 1,250 Simoleons
House Value: 1,350
Haunting Sofa Prop
Costs: 45 SimCash
House Value: 6,650
3 Sleep
Haunted TV
Costs: 1,500 Simoleons
House Value: 1,550
7 Fun; 3 Social
MSS Lamp of Terror
Costs: 1,500 Simoleons
House Value: 1,550
Coffee Table Prop
Costs: 750 Social Points
House Value: 1,900
MSS Workbench
Costs: 1,800 Simoleons
House Value: 1,700
3 Fun
Haunted Desk
Costs: 2,500 Simoleons
House Value: 2,000
Poltergeist Bed Prop
Costs: 1,300 Social Points
House Value: 3,850
11 Sleep
Thingymajig
Costs: 1,400 Social Points
House Value: 100
19 Fun
Haunted Wardrobe Prop
Costs: 1,500
House Value: 4,300
This week's set of items also includes an MSS Hoojamaflip decoration that's worth 3,050 House Value and 11 Sleep, but it requires players to complete the timed Ghost Town quests to unlock. Of course, the majority of the super cool items cost SimCash to acquire. But at least there are a number of items worth Social Points and Simoleons to at least give the feeling that you're house has been reclaimed by the Jigsaw Killer for whatever reason. Isn't that Halloween is all about anyway?
Check out the rest of our Halloween 2011 coverage right here >
[Image Credit: Playfish]
Which of these in-game items have you picked up in The Sims Social to ring in Halloween? What else are you doing this holiday to celebrate?
Internet safety expert accuses The Sims Social of promoting cybersex
I hope you packed some dry clothes, because we're about to lead you down one slippery slope. (Zing!) Charles Conway, self-proclaimed UK-based Internet safety expert and editor of Scam Detectives, alleges that EA and Playfish's enormously popular The Sims Social promotes cyber sex between children and adults (fat chance). And it's all thanks to The Sims Social's Woo-Hoo feature.
While playing the game, players can build asynchronous relationships with one another that can quickly grow into romantic relationships. Ultimately, those relationships will draw the players' avatars closer and can result in them having Woo-Hoo. And like any social activity in the game, players are rewarded Social Points for this that they can use to buy new items.
"Even if Facebook did verify the age of it's users (which it doesn't), at what age does it become acceptable for a child to engage in "virtual sex" for rewards," Conway asks. "Does it ever become acceptable? Isn't sex for rewards the very definition of prostitution? How is playing this game different to children having "cybersex" in a chatroom?"
The list of questions goes on. Sure, Woo-Hoo in The Sims Social is an allusion to having sex, but the "sexual" act displayed is arguably far from lewd--way less provocative than what children have access to on basic cable. More importantly, Woo-Hoo does not allow players to directly communicate within the game in real time like a chat room would.
"When 40% of kids admit that they have Facebook 'friends' that they don't know in 'real life,' there's a real risk of a predator using a game like this to build a relationship with a child that could lead to real world abuse," Conway writes. However, what is not pointed out is that all social relationships requested between The Sims Social players--including romantic ones--require the consent of the player from the start and at every stage of advancement.
If a player feels uncomfortable during any point of the "relationship," they can halt its progress. As for Playfish and EA restricting adult content (which suggestiveness is debatable), there are a number of Facebook games that arguably promote drug trafficking, serial murder and nearly genocidal manslaughter. Maybe it's time for Facebook to meet with the ESRB and PEGI.
Do you think that Woo-Hoo in The Sims Social promotes cybersex or prostitution? Would you agree with a rating system for Facebook games like one that exists for traditional games
While playing the game, players can build asynchronous relationships with one another that can quickly grow into romantic relationships. Ultimately, those relationships will draw the players' avatars closer and can result in them having Woo-Hoo. And like any social activity in the game, players are rewarded Social Points for this that they can use to buy new items.
"Even if Facebook did verify the age of it's users (which it doesn't), at what age does it become acceptable for a child to engage in "virtual sex" for rewards," Conway asks. "Does it ever become acceptable? Isn't sex for rewards the very definition of prostitution? How is playing this game different to children having "cybersex" in a chatroom?"
The list of questions goes on. Sure, Woo-Hoo in The Sims Social is an allusion to having sex, but the "sexual" act displayed is arguably far from lewd--way less provocative than what children have access to on basic cable. More importantly, Woo-Hoo does not allow players to directly communicate within the game in real time like a chat room would.
"When 40% of kids admit that they have Facebook 'friends' that they don't know in 'real life,' there's a real risk of a predator using a game like this to build a relationship with a child that could lead to real world abuse," Conway writes. However, what is not pointed out is that all social relationships requested between The Sims Social players--including romantic ones--require the consent of the player from the start and at every stage of advancement.
If a player feels uncomfortable during any point of the "relationship," they can halt its progress. As for Playfish and EA restricting adult content (which suggestiveness is debatable), there are a number of Facebook games that arguably promote drug trafficking, serial murder and nearly genocidal manslaughter. Maybe it's time for Facebook to meet with the ESRB and PEGI.
Do you think that Woo-Hoo in The Sims Social promotes cybersex or prostitution? Would you agree with a rating system for Facebook games like one that exists for traditional games
The Sims Social's Simify will morph you into a Sim, won't teach Simlish
Admit it: A part of you has always wanted to be a Sim. There's no need to make any decisions for yourself, you're fed and bathed daily and you get to advance in life without the restrictions of that dastardly thing we call reality.
Well, now you can ... sort of. Playfish and EA have launched Simify, a mini app on The Sims Social fan page that will take your picture and turn it into a Sim. It's really that simple, but you can either upload a picture of yourself or take one right on the spot with a webcam. (You can also create your own Sim from scratch, but what's the fun in that?)
And it's fairly accurate: While it pegged me with rather dark skin due to low lighting, it recognized that I wear glasses. Hey, if only for that fun fact, color this writer impressed. Though, the app did neglect to include my beard--again, poor lighting.
Just in case the mini app didn't get something right, users can customize the picture using most of the options found in The Sims Social's character customization screen on the spot. When you're finished, the app gives you the option to both use the picture as your Facebook profile image and download it as a JPEG. Let's just say that we took full advantage of Simify's capabilities. As an added bonus, you can use the results as a reference for when you create or modify your Sim in the game.
Click here to try and Simify yourself on Facebook Now >
Have you tried the Simify mini app for The Sims Social yet? How do you normally create your Sims: In your own likeness or to look like someone else entirely?
Well, now you can ... sort of. Playfish and EA have launched Simify, a mini app on The Sims Social fan page that will take your picture and turn it into a Sim. It's really that simple, but you can either upload a picture of yourself or take one right on the spot with a webcam. (You can also create your own Sim from scratch, but what's the fun in that?)
And it's fairly accurate: While it pegged me with rather dark skin due to low lighting, it recognized that I wear glasses. Hey, if only for that fun fact, color this writer impressed. Though, the app did neglect to include my beard--again, poor lighting.
Just in case the mini app didn't get something right, users can customize the picture using most of the options found in The Sims Social's character customization screen on the spot. When you're finished, the app gives you the option to both use the picture as your Facebook profile image and download it as a JPEG. Let's just say that we took full advantage of Simify's capabilities. As an added bonus, you can use the results as a reference for when you create or modify your Sim in the game.
Click here to try and Simify yourself on Facebook Now >
Have you tried the Simify mini app for The Sims Social yet? How do you normally create your Sims: In your own likeness or to look like someone else entirely?
The Sims Social celebrates launch of Sims 3 Pets with free virtual poster
Dogs, horses and cats, oh my. Because life is better with pets, The Sims maker EA has launched an expansion pack today for players that allows pets to take center stage in the game. Helping promote this launch is a free virtual poster offered to fans of The Sims Social.
You can grab The Sims 3 Pets Poster by clicking here, after you become a fan of the game's official Facebook fan page.
Aside from looking cool, the poster takes up two tiles of wall space and adds 100 House Value points to your home. If you don't like it, it can be sold for 150 Simoleons. It also comes with one action, "Learn More", which sends you to the Sims 3 Pets website when you click on it.
Do you play any of The Sims games along with The Sims Social? Were you able to grab the free poster?
You can grab The Sims 3 Pets Poster by clicking here, after you become a fan of the game's official Facebook fan page.
Aside from looking cool, the poster takes up two tiles of wall space and adds 100 House Value points to your home. If you don't like it, it can be sold for 150 Simoleons. It also comes with one action, "Learn More", which sends you to the Sims 3 Pets website when you click on it.
Do you play any of The Sims games along with The Sims Social? Were you able to grab the free poster?
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