The Dairy Barn expansion arrived! You can now expand the storage capacity from 20 to 40 for up to 5 dairies, giving you room for 200 cows total. To expand your Dairy Barn click on it and open the Expand Menu. Select the Dairy Barn you would like to add 10 extra storage to and click expand. You will need to get the help of 10 friends over 3 days, like all barn raisings have worked in the past. You also have an option to 'Buy Now' for 10$FV instead of asking your friends to help.
You will be able to perform 2 barn raisings for each dairy, so a total of 10 or 100 clicks to help from friends.
Note: For now Cow Print Dairy Barns are not expandable, this was posted by Lexilicious on the Official FarmVille Forums.
Have you expanded your Dairy Barn?
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Great Site to Earn Money Online
Monday, February 13, 2012
Quote of the Moment: The Eternal Struggle
"Where does the antagonism between traditional and social games come from? I think it might be coming from the intent on both sides. The developers of console games and traditional standalone PC games are almost always thinking about what will be fun -- money comes second. Money is the purview of the marketing and business guys, not the developers themselves.
"But the developers of social games must necessarily think about money and fun together, whether they be executive or otherwise. They have access to insanely detailed information about what players do, like, and want to pay for. Why not use it? What would console developers do with the same information? Not ignore is surely. Is it simply a question of information, then?
"It may also be a matter of ego. Console developers often view social games as lesser, in spite of how complex they have become (again, just look at the current depth of FarmVille), because with accessibility comes simplicity. Social game execs and developers, for all their money, still seem to feel they're the younger sibling of console games, and must rail against them whenever possible.
"There is room for all of us in this industry, though the dollars may flow one way or another depending on the climate. It's important to learn what each side has to offer the other –- and then eventually there may not be sides at all. But for my part, I want to hear a lot less talk of users, and start hearing a much greater focus on player enjoyment."
-Gamasutra's Brandon Sheffield analyzes two eternal struggles -- art vs. commerce and traditional vs. social games -- in a recent editorial
"But the developers of social games must necessarily think about money and fun together, whether they be executive or otherwise. They have access to insanely detailed information about what players do, like, and want to pay for. Why not use it? What would console developers do with the same information? Not ignore is surely. Is it simply a question of information, then?
"It may also be a matter of ego. Console developers often view social games as lesser, in spite of how complex they have become (again, just look at the current depth of FarmVille), because with accessibility comes simplicity. Social game execs and developers, for all their money, still seem to feel they're the younger sibling of console games, and must rail against them whenever possible.
"There is room for all of us in this industry, though the dollars may flow one way or another depending on the climate. It's important to learn what each side has to offer the other –- and then eventually there may not be sides at all. But for my part, I want to hear a lot less talk of users, and start hearing a much greater focus on player enjoyment."
-Gamasutra's Brandon Sheffield analyzes two eternal struggles -- art vs. commerce and traditional vs. social games -- in a recent editorial
YoVille: Grab Lunch with the Zynga Ninjas in San Francisco
Thirty YoVille players will get to have lunch with Pink and Platinum Ninja at the YoVille studio in San Francisco Bay area. The lucky winners will also take a tour around the building and get some free YoVille swag. Check the official event post after the link.
Does Pink Ninja have Pink hair in real life? Who is going to cook? What are they having for lunch? We will make sure to answer these serious questions in future posts. Stay tuned.
Update: It looks like the players are going to prepare their own food since Zynga is still looking for a cook for its San Francisco office :D
Hi Guys,
We want to meet you. :)
YoVille is hosting it's first ever meet and greet lunch!
If you're in the San Francisco Bay area and would like to have lunch at the YoVille studio with myself and Platinum Ninja now is your chance.
This Friday June 25th at 12:00pm we will be hosting a lunch for up to 30 people. This will also include a tour of our building and some free swag!
Contact us here if you are in the area and would like to attend.
turquoiseninja@zynga.com
We will send details to the first 30 people that contact us.
**Please note that the above listed email is not for Support, reporting or anything else. If you send emails that are not related to the lunch gathering to this email address you will not receive a response. Please continue to contact Support for any game issues.**
**You must be 18 years or older to attend.**
Does Pink Ninja have Pink hair in real life? Who is going to cook? What are they having for lunch? We will make sure to answer these serious questions in future posts. Stay tuned.
Update: It looks like the players are going to prepare their own food since Zynga is still looking for a cook for its San Francisco office :D
Hi Guys,
We want to meet you. :)
YoVille is hosting it's first ever meet and greet lunch!
If you're in the San Francisco Bay area and would like to have lunch at the YoVille studio with myself and Platinum Ninja now is your chance.
This Friday June 25th at 12:00pm we will be hosting a lunch for up to 30 people. This will also include a tour of our building and some free swag!
Contact us here if you are in the area and would like to attend.
turquoiseninja@zynga.com
We will send details to the first 30 people that contact us.
**Please note that the above listed email is not for Support, reporting or anything else. If you send emails that are not related to the lunch gathering to this email address you will not receive a response. Please continue to contact Support for any game issues.**
**You must be 18 years or older to attend.**
Treasure Isle: Grab 5 free Island Cash and a Starfruit daily bonus
Treasure Isle 5 free Island Cash and Starfruit
Fans at Treasure Isle Info have discovered a shortcut to grab 5 free Island Cash and a Starfruit from the Zynga toolbar without having to install it.
Treasure Isle Starfruit
The link is here. You can click on that link every 8 hours to get another Starfruit, which grants players 15 Energy.
Fans at Treasure Isle Info have discovered a shortcut to grab 5 free Island Cash and a Starfruit from the Zynga toolbar without having to install it.
Treasure Isle Starfruit
The link is here. You can click on that link every 8 hours to get another Starfruit, which grants players 15 Energy.
Survey outlines social game play, spending habits
Surveys of the social gaming landscape are nothing new, but a new survey from Inside Networks shows just how addictive the games can be.
As reported by GamesBeat, the survey found over 90% of the 1,800 interviewed social game players check in on their games at least once a day. Of those, over two-thirds check in on their social gaming multiple times a day, suggesting a deep engagement with the content. Farmville was the most popular daily-check for social gamers, unsurprisingly, but games like Social City, Pet Society and Cafe World also drew high proportions of daily players.
The survey also has some interesting data on the so-called "whales" that spend the most money on social games. While only two percent of survey respondents copped to spending at least $25 on social gaming in a month, the vast majority of those big spenders focused their spending on a single game. This suggests that these players are developing an intense connection with their favorite social game, rather than with social gaming in general. Then again, 0.1% of respondents said they spent $25 or more a month on eight separate social games, proving there are at least a few profligate social gaming generalists out there.
Unsurprisingly, a majority of respondents said they play social games with friends, rather than co-workers, classmates or strangers.
As reported by GamesBeat, the survey found over 90% of the 1,800 interviewed social game players check in on their games at least once a day. Of those, over two-thirds check in on their social gaming multiple times a day, suggesting a deep engagement with the content. Farmville was the most popular daily-check for social gamers, unsurprisingly, but games like Social City, Pet Society and Cafe World also drew high proportions of daily players.
The survey also has some interesting data on the so-called "whales" that spend the most money on social games. While only two percent of survey respondents copped to spending at least $25 on social gaming in a month, the vast majority of those big spenders focused their spending on a single game. This suggests that these players are developing an intense connection with their favorite social game, rather than with social gaming in general. Then again, 0.1% of respondents said they spent $25 or more a month on eight separate social games, proving there are at least a few profligate social gaming generalists out there.
Unsurprisingly, a majority of respondents said they play social games with friends, rather than co-workers, classmates or strangers.
Friday, February 10, 2012
YoVille: New way to grab the Free Blue Balloon
This is an official post by Zynga's Platinum Ninja.
We saw that there was some confusion about how to get the exclusive handheld blue balloons so we will be making it easier to rally your friends through a discoverable balloon in YoVille. You may find a wandering blue balloon floating around town! It's known to hang out at the stores, your friends homes, or even your own.
Once you click on the balloon you will be given the chance to then "Rally your Friends" as before. Click the "Rally your Friends" option and then share and a Feed will be posted to your wall. Remember rallying your friends and posting this feed not only brings more awareness to the cause but also increases your chances on getting your hands on this exclusive Handheld Blue Balloon. If you get 10 friends to click in on this feed you'll receive a handheld balloon to keep and wear as much as you want!
yoville free blue balloonyoville free blue balloon
So don't forget to click on this balloon when you find it around YoVille and Rally your Friends!
- Platinum Ninja
This article originally appeared on YoVille Lounge.
We saw that there was some confusion about how to get the exclusive handheld blue balloons so we will be making it easier to rally your friends through a discoverable balloon in YoVille. You may find a wandering blue balloon floating around town! It's known to hang out at the stores, your friends homes, or even your own.
Once you click on the balloon you will be given the chance to then "Rally your Friends" as before. Click the "Rally your Friends" option and then share and a Feed will be posted to your wall. Remember rallying your friends and posting this feed not only brings more awareness to the cause but also increases your chances on getting your hands on this exclusive Handheld Blue Balloon. If you get 10 friends to click in on this feed you'll receive a handheld balloon to keep and wear as much as you want!
yoville free blue balloonyoville free blue balloon
So don't forget to click on this balloon when you find it around YoVille and Rally your Friends!
- Platinum Ninja
This article originally appeared on YoVille Lounge.
Twilight theme arrive in Cafe World & PetVille -- Is YoVille next?
Zynga updated Cafe World with items from the vampire movie, Twilight. The items that were added are kind of similar to the ones that are usually released on Halloween. They also include decorations like the Twinkling Vampire (Edward) and Transforming Werewolf (Jacob). PetVille players are also expecting a coming soon Twilight theme.
I'm sure you've guessed where this is going. Do you think a Twilight theme is coming soon to YoVille? We're talking about modern houses, werewolves and who knows, maybe fancy cars?
This article originally appeared on YoVille Lounge.
I'm sure you've guessed where this is going. Do you think a Twilight theme is coming soon to YoVille? We're talking about modern houses, werewolves and who knows, maybe fancy cars?
This article originally appeared on YoVille Lounge.
FarmVille Sponsored Link Appears: Bing
Bing is sponsoring a link for 2 Free FarmVille Cash. You can access the sponsored link offer through FarmVille. The offer is located underneath your FarmVille home page.
Bing sponsored a similar link back in March of this year. Before clicking on this sponsored link, double check that you do not currently have "like" on the Bing page.
Once you click the link under the farm, a pop up window will appear. Choose either Dining In or Dining Out, answer a question and watch the short video.
farmville free farm cash
After watching the video, click on the Join us on Facebook button. You will be directed to the Bing page on Facebook. The pop up window will display the reward.
farmville free farm cash
farmville free farm cash
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Will you do this quick sponsored link for 2 Free FarmVille Cash?
Bing sponsored a similar link back in March of this year. Before clicking on this sponsored link, double check that you do not currently have "like" on the Bing page.
Once you click the link under the farm, a pop up window will appear. Choose either Dining In or Dining Out, answer a question and watch the short video.
farmville free farm cash
After watching the video, click on the Join us on Facebook button. You will be directed to the Bing page on Facebook. The pop up window will display the reward.
farmville free farm cash
farmville free farm cash
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Will you do this quick sponsored link for 2 Free FarmVille Cash?
Disney makes a $500 million play for Playdom [Rumor]
Disney is rumored to be days away from inking a deal with social game publisher Playdom for somewhere in the ballpark of $500 million. The news, which was originally reported by TechCrunch and has been since confirmed by a handful of anonymous sources, would not be surprising considering that social gaming is the new hotness in interactive entertainment.
Playdom is one of the larger social game publishers, responsible for games such as Social City, Tiki Farm and Wild Ones. These games don't attract the same monthly active users of Zynga's top games, FarmVille, Poker, etc, but the company has still secured millions in funding and has been on a major acquisition spree of late, most recently snapping up My Vineyard creator Metaplace.
Disney and Playdom are both staying mum on the rumor, but if this potential partnership means that Mickey and friends will make their way to Facebook -- maybe in the form of a decent theme park simulation or a socialized Epic Mickey -- we'd tip our Mouse ears to that. Read
Playdom is one of the larger social game publishers, responsible for games such as Social City, Tiki Farm and Wild Ones. These games don't attract the same monthly active users of Zynga's top games, FarmVille, Poker, etc, but the company has still secured millions in funding and has been on a major acquisition spree of late, most recently snapping up My Vineyard creator Metaplace.
Disney and Playdom are both staying mum on the rumor, but if this potential partnership means that Mickey and friends will make their way to Facebook -- maybe in the form of a decent theme park simulation or a socialized Epic Mickey -- we'd tip our Mouse ears to that. Read
Cafe World Cuisine Cookbooks 'coming soon'
The Cafe World Cookbook hold the recipes that keep our virtual restaurants in business, but in addition to the fundamental and advanced recipes, there's always been a mysterious 'specialty' recipes as well. I'm still not 100% sure what these recipes will be, but based on what's there so far, it looks like you will also be able to level up your cooking skill by type of cuisine and then unlock bonuses.
cafe world cuisine cookbooks comoing soon
Since my favorite things to cook right now are the pot roast and chicken, looks like I've already managed to reach Level 1 in American style cooking. So much for being adventurous in my virtual kitchen. I'll post more on Cuisine Cookbooks as soon there's more information.
Which type of cuisine do you cook the most in Cafe World?
cafe world cuisine cookbooks comoing soon
Since my favorite things to cook right now are the pot roast and chicken, looks like I've already managed to reach Level 1 in American style cooking. So much for being adventurous in my virtual kitchen. I'll post more on Cuisine Cookbooks as soon there's more information.
Which type of cuisine do you cook the most in Cafe World?
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Social Game Fads: Enough with the cute lost animals already!
Social Game Fads is a new series where we take a look at some of the unoriginal game mechanics that are being reused over and over again in our favorite Facebook games. Are you getting bored of the same ole' thing? We are too, and we're exposing some of the copycats who are to blame.
Just about every game on Facebook does this, regardless if it's an animal game or not. "Oh no! This adorable little baby sad crying animal has been abandoned on your farm/zoo/island and needs your friend's help in order to rescue it!". Whether your play Facebook goes or not, you've seen this. The animals started out looking like regular animals, and over time the eyes have gotten bigger and bigger, the baby animals are getting cuter and cuter, and they're all looking sadder and sadder.
In this mechanic, the game will tell you that a lost/hurt/abandoned/wandering animal has appeared and you need to ask friends to rescue her. When friends click on the wall post that you make, they will get to claim the pet. Basically, the player gets nothing out of this except the gratification of 'saving' this poor adorable little critter and the feeling of helping their friends get a new animal. It seems like animals are constantly finding themselves lost and in trouble and in need of your help. Where do they come from?
In fact, Zoo World is built almost entirely on this concept. Animals are always appearing on your zoo and in need of rescue, and there is even a reward for having tons of people rescue your animal. Virtually every game is to blame for pulling on our heart strings and using the power of adorable sad animals to get us to post to our wall.
Do you post every sad animal you see to your wall? Do you like saving animals, or are you sick of this in Facebook games?
Just about every game on Facebook does this, regardless if it's an animal game or not. "Oh no! This adorable little baby sad crying animal has been abandoned on your farm/zoo/island and needs your friend's help in order to rescue it!". Whether your play Facebook goes or not, you've seen this. The animals started out looking like regular animals, and over time the eyes have gotten bigger and bigger, the baby animals are getting cuter and cuter, and they're all looking sadder and sadder.
In this mechanic, the game will tell you that a lost/hurt/abandoned/wandering animal has appeared and you need to ask friends to rescue her. When friends click on the wall post that you make, they will get to claim the pet. Basically, the player gets nothing out of this except the gratification of 'saving' this poor adorable little critter and the feeling of helping their friends get a new animal. It seems like animals are constantly finding themselves lost and in trouble and in need of your help. Where do they come from?
In fact, Zoo World is built almost entirely on this concept. Animals are always appearing on your zoo and in need of rescue, and there is even a reward for having tons of people rescue your animal. Virtually every game is to blame for pulling on our heart strings and using the power of adorable sad animals to get us to post to our wall.
Do you post every sad animal you see to your wall? Do you like saving animals, or are you sick of this in Facebook games?
Happy Aquarium releases new decor to get your sharks in the mood
Happy Aquarium Shark tank decor
After a very sharktastic week in Happy Aquarium, where Crowdstar gave away a Rare Rainbow Shark, and then put out four friendly Limited Edition sharks in the store (which has since, sold out), there's now shark decor.
You can find the Beware of Shark sign as a freebie on the gifts page. As for tank ambiance, the Deep Blue gravel costs 35 Pearls or 21 Facebook Credits ($2.10 USD, which is currently a 63% discount), while the tank wallpaper Deep Blue costs 36 Pearls or 30 FB Credits ($3 USD).
After a very sharktastic week in Happy Aquarium, where Crowdstar gave away a Rare Rainbow Shark, and then put out four friendly Limited Edition sharks in the store (which has since, sold out), there's now shark decor.
You can find the Beware of Shark sign as a freebie on the gifts page. As for tank ambiance, the Deep Blue gravel costs 35 Pearls or 21 Facebook Credits ($2.10 USD, which is currently a 63% discount), while the tank wallpaper Deep Blue costs 36 Pearls or 30 FB Credits ($3 USD).
Bejeweled Blitz fans say 'If it ain't broke, don't fix it!'
Bejeweled Blitz new stats screen
Bejeweled Blitz 600k noviceEvery time a game makes a change, it's not without controversy. The puzzling basics of PopCap Games' Bejeweled Blitz was a winner three years before Facebook itself came into existence in 2004. Players of the game have also been climbing steadily this past week.
Well, today, PopCap whipped out a new acheivements system with a flourish, which features 131 ranks, where the first hundred have corresponding badges, the oldest being the "Elder Bejewelian". (But you can go higher than Rank 131, since PopCap admits they simply "ran out of cool names at that point.") Even without checking out the revamped game, the first thing I knew was that the change will upset veteran players.
When Bejeweled Blitz finally got the 25k bar to work, it meant that people had to deliberately play badly to fill it up again. Another issue was when they allowed players to hit beyond 500k, but didn't introduce the 500k Star Medal 'til much later, prompting players to try again. All these things happened because the new features couldn't be applied retroactively. And then they had to go and introduce the Boosts system, which injected the game with a freshness we didn't think was possible, but it definitely lowered the bar for newbies to score higher than previously before.
The immediate reaction by fans to this latest change is that the screen has SHRUNK. By this, I doubt they mean the play area. Because I've noticed that the player roster on the right has this unpleasant varnished look to it, indicative of a smaller screen size. And yet, this isn't so important as how silly it is for a player like me, to have scored over 620,000 points at one point, reduced to the rank of Novice. Oh well, at least the race to the top will be fun.
Bejeweled Blitz 600k noviceEvery time a game makes a change, it's not without controversy. The puzzling basics of PopCap Games' Bejeweled Blitz was a winner three years before Facebook itself came into existence in 2004. Players of the game have also been climbing steadily this past week.
Well, today, PopCap whipped out a new acheivements system with a flourish, which features 131 ranks, where the first hundred have corresponding badges, the oldest being the "Elder Bejewelian". (But you can go higher than Rank 131, since PopCap admits they simply "ran out of cool names at that point.") Even without checking out the revamped game, the first thing I knew was that the change will upset veteran players.
When Bejeweled Blitz finally got the 25k bar to work, it meant that people had to deliberately play badly to fill it up again. Another issue was when they allowed players to hit beyond 500k, but didn't introduce the 500k Star Medal 'til much later, prompting players to try again. All these things happened because the new features couldn't be applied retroactively. And then they had to go and introduce the Boosts system, which injected the game with a freshness we didn't think was possible, but it definitely lowered the bar for newbies to score higher than previously before.
The immediate reaction by fans to this latest change is that the screen has SHRUNK. By this, I doubt they mean the play area. Because I've noticed that the player roster on the right has this unpleasant varnished look to it, indicative of a smaller screen size. And yet, this isn't so important as how silly it is for a player like me, to have scored over 620,000 points at one point, reduced to the rank of Novice. Oh well, at least the race to the top will be fun.
FarmVille Potato Onion Bread recipe change
In another minor update tonight, the Potato Onion Bread Recipe time has been changed.
The time of the Recipe has increased from previously 30 minutes to now the cook time of 6 hours.
This originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
The time of the Recipe has increased from previously 30 minutes to now the cook time of 6 hours.
This originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
FarmVille introduces Crafting Recipe Mastery
Get ready. FarmVille Crafting Recipe Mastery is now available for you to master!
Crafting Mastery works with your existing Crafting Buildings including the Winery, Spa, and Bakery and allows you to master your Recipes. After mastering a Craft Recipe, just like with Crop Mastery, you will receive additional XP as well as Craft Mastery Sign for you to proudly display on your farm.
Good news, your current progress will count towards Crafting Recipe Mastery, so all your hard work up until this point will be counted.
Will you participate in FarmVille Craft Mastery?
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Crafting Mastery works with your existing Crafting Buildings including the Winery, Spa, and Bakery and allows you to master your Recipes. After mastering a Craft Recipe, just like with Crop Mastery, you will receive additional XP as well as Craft Mastery Sign for you to proudly display on your farm.
Good news, your current progress will count towards Crafting Recipe Mastery, so all your hard work up until this point will be counted.
Will you participate in FarmVille Craft Mastery?
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
FarmVille iPhone Version 1.04 promises to speed the plow
FarmVille released a few fixes for the iPhone version of the game, some that look like they might hopefully speed things up a bit. One of the biggest complains about playing the farm game on the go is that everything tends to move molasses slow.
Version 1.04 of the game promises to speed up load times, let you accept and send gifts faster, and you can new invite neighbors to join your virtual farming community via email.
Download FarmVille Version 1.04 from the iTunes App Store here >
FarmVille for iPhone: Love it or leave it?
Love it!Leave it!Don't have an iPhoneI only play on Facebook
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Version 1.04 of the game promises to speed up load times, let you accept and send gifts faster, and you can new invite neighbors to join your virtual farming community via email.
Download FarmVille Version 1.04 from the iTunes App Store here >
FarmVille for iPhone: Love it or leave it?
Love it!Leave it!Don't have an iPhoneI only play on Facebook
VoteView ResultsShare ThisPolldaddy.com
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Cafe World's 1 Year Anniversary Catering Order: Everything you need to know
Cafe World One Year Anniversary Recipes
Zynga's Cafe World is one year old this week and to celebrate (along with a huge sale on Cafe Cash and other items), you'll find five new recipes in your cookbook that are available for one week only. They're essential to finishing the brand new catering order, "One Year Anniversary Party." Complete the order by September 30 to qualify for a chance to win a trip for two to New York City. Join us behind the cut to get all the information you need to complete this daunting order.
Cafe World One Year Catering Order recipes
If you get three stars on the job, you'll get to keep these five limited edition recipes:
Anniversary Cake: 300 coins, serves 400 in 8 hours, rewards 1200 coins and 127 Cafe Points
Pastilla: 3,350 coins, serves 800 in 16 hours, rewards 6,400 coins and 367 Cafe Points
Feijoada: 840 coins, serves 600 in 12 hours, rewards 3,000 coins and 219 Cafe Points
Shanghai Dumpling: 4,000 coins, serves 1,100 in 22 hours, rewards 7,700 coins and 440 Cafe Points
Ratatouille: 13,000 coins: serves 1,200 in 24 hours, rewards 19,200 coins and 614 Cafe Points
Cafe World Ratatouille
For this limited time order, you'll also need to provide 15 Balloons and 10 Party Favors, which will run you 40 Cafe Cash total, or about $7 USD with the sale that's going on this week. Let's hope being forced to pay Cafe Cash in order to complete Catering Orders doesn't become a trend. Here's what you'll need to cook up to help Amelia host the best party ever:
65 Shanghai Dumplings: 22 hours, unlocks for 14 Cafe Cash
120 Feijoada: 12 hours, unlocks for 12 Cafe Cash
146 Pastilla: 16 hours, unlocks for 17 Cafe Cash
1 Anniversary Cake: 8 hours, unlocks for 8 Cafe Cash
Wow, that is a lot of cooking. Honestly, if you want to complete this in time to qualify for that awesome trip to New York, you'll need the 21 friends that this order calls for. Remember, you can queue up all of your dishes across your friends and start the timer on the order just before the first dish completes to save yourself a lot of time. However, if you're shooting for the trip to New York, you'll need to complete the order by September 30 regardless, so this won't help much. If you just want to finish the order within seven days, this strategy will work out just fine. These are the rewards you'll get for completing the order on time:
In seven days: 7,560 Cafe Points; 113,400 coins
In 10 days: 5,400 Cafe Points; 81,000 coins
More than 10 days: 3,200 Cafe Points; 48,600 coins
Zynga's Cafe World is one year old this week and to celebrate (along with a huge sale on Cafe Cash and other items), you'll find five new recipes in your cookbook that are available for one week only. They're essential to finishing the brand new catering order, "One Year Anniversary Party." Complete the order by September 30 to qualify for a chance to win a trip for two to New York City. Join us behind the cut to get all the information you need to complete this daunting order.
Cafe World One Year Catering Order recipes
If you get three stars on the job, you'll get to keep these five limited edition recipes:
Anniversary Cake: 300 coins, serves 400 in 8 hours, rewards 1200 coins and 127 Cafe Points
Pastilla: 3,350 coins, serves 800 in 16 hours, rewards 6,400 coins and 367 Cafe Points
Feijoada: 840 coins, serves 600 in 12 hours, rewards 3,000 coins and 219 Cafe Points
Shanghai Dumpling: 4,000 coins, serves 1,100 in 22 hours, rewards 7,700 coins and 440 Cafe Points
Ratatouille: 13,000 coins: serves 1,200 in 24 hours, rewards 19,200 coins and 614 Cafe Points
Cafe World Ratatouille
For this limited time order, you'll also need to provide 15 Balloons and 10 Party Favors, which will run you 40 Cafe Cash total, or about $7 USD with the sale that's going on this week. Let's hope being forced to pay Cafe Cash in order to complete Catering Orders doesn't become a trend. Here's what you'll need to cook up to help Amelia host the best party ever:
65 Shanghai Dumplings: 22 hours, unlocks for 14 Cafe Cash
120 Feijoada: 12 hours, unlocks for 12 Cafe Cash
146 Pastilla: 16 hours, unlocks for 17 Cafe Cash
1 Anniversary Cake: 8 hours, unlocks for 8 Cafe Cash
Wow, that is a lot of cooking. Honestly, if you want to complete this in time to qualify for that awesome trip to New York, you'll need the 21 friends that this order calls for. Remember, you can queue up all of your dishes across your friends and start the timer on the order just before the first dish completes to save yourself a lot of time. However, if you're shooting for the trip to New York, you'll need to complete the order by September 30 regardless, so this won't help much. If you just want to finish the order within seven days, this strategy will work out just fine. These are the rewards you'll get for completing the order on time:
In seven days: 7,560 Cafe Points; 113,400 coins
In 10 days: 5,400 Cafe Points; 81,000 coins
More than 10 days: 3,200 Cafe Points; 48,600 coins
Cafe World One Year Anniversary Sweepstakes: Win a trip to New York or $1,000 cash
To celebrate dominating our online lives for one whole year, Cafe World is going to rock seven lucky players' worlds with a trip to New York City for two and five prizes to the tune of $1,000 cash in Zynga's Cafe World One Year Anniversary Sweepstakes. To have a chance at the dough, all you need to do is log in for five separate days before September 30 and you'll be entered.
If you want that three-day, two-night trip to New York (that Zynga claims is worth up to $5,000), you'll need to work for it. Complete the new "One Year Anniversary Party" Catering Order by September 30 to be entered for a chance to win. There's only six days left to complete that order, so get to cooking. It's a pretty big order, but don't worry. We have you covered with a full guide.
Check out the official rules over at the Cafe World forums for more information.
If you want that three-day, two-night trip to New York (that Zynga claims is worth up to $5,000), you'll need to work for it. Complete the new "One Year Anniversary Party" Catering Order by September 30 to be entered for a chance to win. There's only six days left to complete that order, so get to cooking. It's a pretty big order, but don't worry. We have you covered with a full guide.
Check out the official rules over at the Cafe World forums for more information.
Zynga Germany: What does this new Euro studio mean for FarmVille?
In the next phase of the Zynga Dominion Initiative (kidding, sort of), the social gaming titan behind FarmVille has acquired Dextrose, a Mainz-based German gaming technology company that developed the Aves engine, for an undisclosed amount. The company, now officially Zynga Germany, has used Aves to help other developers create web browser games with high-end graphics, something Zynga will most likely use to improve its games.
However, it's unknown whether Facebook can support the Aves engine. Zynga cryptically said that Dextrose would help the company bring the "best in next-generation gaming technology." It's doubtful that Zynga would buy a company like Dextrose without researching if Facebook can support its engine.
Zynga Germany will be based in Frankfurt and headed by chief technology officer Paul Bakaus, the founder of Dextrose, while co-founder Rocco Di Leo will serve as country manager for Zynga's European arm. First China, then Japan and now Europe? Who's next, Canada?
However, it's unknown whether Facebook can support the Aves engine. Zynga cryptically said that Dextrose would help the company bring the "best in next-generation gaming technology." It's doubtful that Zynga would buy a company like Dextrose without researching if Facebook can support its engine.
Zynga Germany will be based in Frankfurt and headed by chief technology officer Paul Bakaus, the founder of Dextrose, while co-founder Rocco Di Leo will serve as country manager for Zynga's European arm. First China, then Japan and now Europe? Who's next, Canada?
Happy Pets iPad Giveaway Sweepstakes: Every Dragon is a chance to win an iPad
Between now and October 8, every Dragon you buy in Happy Pets will enter you for a chance to win one Apple iPad or one of 10 iPod Nanos in the Happy Pets iPad Giveaway Sweepstakes. Considering the short sale on Dragons a few days ago, its as if CrowdStar can't give these creatures away. It's probably due to the fire hazards that come with the purchase these flame-belchers.
Each Dragon can be bought for 66 Facebook Credits, or $6.60 USD (why can't all currency conversions be this easy?). Unfortunately, you'll also need to have a Dino Den to house the whelps, so get to it, if you haven't already. Besides, who wouldn't want a dragon?
Each Dragon can be bought for 66 Facebook Credits, or $6.60 USD (why can't all currency conversions be this easy?). Unfortunately, you'll also need to have a Dino Den to house the whelps, so get to it, if you haven't already. Besides, who wouldn't want a dragon?
Breaking News! Mickey Mouse invades Social City!
I was playing Social City, and there he was -- looming over my town square, his big yellow feet ready to stomp on my carefully placed trees and post office. And then, I realized -- this wasn't Godzilla with big round ears, it was the brand new Mickey Mouse statue that is available as a free gift. Call off the Social City police, it's just Mickey Mouse!
And, you too can get a giant Mickey Mouse statue for your city by clicking this link -- http://play.dm/99Y -- or by receiving one as a gift from friends. This is part of the recent Disney-fication of Social City. M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E!
And, you too can get a giant Mickey Mouse statue for your city by clicking this link -- http://play.dm/99Y -- or by receiving one as a gift from friends. This is part of the recent Disney-fication of Social City. M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E!
Friday, February 3, 2012
New Social City free gifts are spooktacular
Just yesterday, we brought you the news that Playdom has launched a new Halloween raffle in Social City, allowing users to spend City Bucks for their chance at some Halloween themed buildings and decorative items.
Today, we see the release of even more Halloween-themed goodies in the game, both via the game's free gifts page, and through an email promotion being given to those members of the Social City email distribution list.
Follow us behind the break for complete details on how you can get your hands on these spooktacular new items.
As we said, there are currently four Halloween themed items available to send as free gifts, three of which are decorative. The items are the Grave Digger, the Shallow Grave, and the Pumpkin Patch.
The final item is the Pumpkin House, a residential structure that will add citizens to your town, as opposed to the Happiness Points that the other three provide.
In addition, if you are a member of the Social City email distribution list, make sure to check your email inbox for an email from Playdom, giving you a free Trick or Treat bonus in the form of a Pumpkin Statue. Luckily, the link within the email seems to be universal, as we've tested the same email link on multiple accounts, with all receiving the free Pumpkin Statue.
To receive one for yourself, click on this link to receive your own Pumpkin Statue. Just make sure you're logged into Facebook first, before clicking on the link to make sure you receive the item.
Today, we see the release of even more Halloween-themed goodies in the game, both via the game's free gifts page, and through an email promotion being given to those members of the Social City email distribution list.
Follow us behind the break for complete details on how you can get your hands on these spooktacular new items.
As we said, there are currently four Halloween themed items available to send as free gifts, three of which are decorative. The items are the Grave Digger, the Shallow Grave, and the Pumpkin Patch.
The final item is the Pumpkin House, a residential structure that will add citizens to your town, as opposed to the Happiness Points that the other three provide.
In addition, if you are a member of the Social City email distribution list, make sure to check your email inbox for an email from Playdom, giving you a free Trick or Treat bonus in the form of a Pumpkin Statue. Luckily, the link within the email seems to be universal, as we've tested the same email link on multiple accounts, with all receiving the free Pumpkin Statue.
To receive one for yourself, click on this link to receive your own Pumpkin Statue. Just make sure you're logged into Facebook first, before clicking on the link to make sure you receive the item.
Millionaire City celebrates Green Week with new items, homes
While Digital Chocolate's Millionaire City may be focused on living a fantastic life with all of the luxuries money can buy (the game is called Millionaire City after all), that doesn't mean that your spoiled citizens also shouldn't be looking out for the care and survival of Mother Earth. You don't want your city to crumble under pollution, now do you?
That being the case, they have celebrated Green Week, offering users a chance to add a bit of environmental conservation to their towns, via green technology, organic foods, and even luxury resorts and homes that follow the green theme.
Follow us behind the break to see the full selection of items.
There are currently six items available in this environmentally conscious theme. The first two are available to fairly low level players, and come in the form of a Windmill and Recycling Station.
Other items include 15 day Treehouses and Organic Gardens. To offer your citizens some peace of mind while living in the lap of luxury, they can now reside in Eco Resorts and Eco Luxury Homes, both of which are available to higher level players, requiring a level of at least 22 to start purchasing them.
A new feature has also been launched in the game, allowing users to spend a bit of Gold to unlock access to purchasing items that are currently locked due to their level. That being the case, if you'd like to splurge on some of these items, then treat yourself to a bit of early unlocking by shelling out some of your Gold supply to earn the right to purchase them.
That being the case, they have celebrated Green Week, offering users a chance to add a bit of environmental conservation to their towns, via green technology, organic foods, and even luxury resorts and homes that follow the green theme.
Follow us behind the break to see the full selection of items.
There are currently six items available in this environmentally conscious theme. The first two are available to fairly low level players, and come in the form of a Windmill and Recycling Station.
Other items include 15 day Treehouses and Organic Gardens. To offer your citizens some peace of mind while living in the lap of luxury, they can now reside in Eco Resorts and Eco Luxury Homes, both of which are available to higher level players, requiring a level of at least 22 to start purchasing them.
A new feature has also been launched in the game, allowing users to spend a bit of Gold to unlock access to purchasing items that are currently locked due to their level. That being the case, if you'd like to splurge on some of these items, then treat yourself to a bit of early unlocking by shelling out some of your Gold supply to earn the right to purchase them.
Add more fright to your Hotel City this Halloween with new rooms, decorations
In addition to the Dracula Room released in Hotel City earlier this month, Playfish has been hard at work creating even more spooky rooms that may or may not scare the daylights out of your customers.
The first is the Pumpkin Room, available to purchase for 20 Playfish Cash. It will generate 200 coins and 200 experience points per hour. Other rooms are the Ghostly Attic and Mad Scientist Room.
In addition, some new decorative items have been added to the game's store, allowing you to transform your previously placed rooms into those that are also ready to trick or treat your guests this Halloween. It should be noted that most of these items are those that are found in the complete rooms mentioned above, so you can also put these rooms together yourself if you have the funds and patience to do so.
Some of the items include a Pumpkin Four-Posted Bed, a Pumpkin Red-Eyed Moon painting, a cobweb wallpaper, sofas and more. These items are available for both coins or Playfish Cash, so there's a little something for everyone to enjoy the season.
The first is the Pumpkin Room, available to purchase for 20 Playfish Cash. It will generate 200 coins and 200 experience points per hour. Other rooms are the Ghostly Attic and Mad Scientist Room.
In addition, some new decorative items have been added to the game's store, allowing you to transform your previously placed rooms into those that are also ready to trick or treat your guests this Halloween. It should be noted that most of these items are those that are found in the complete rooms mentioned above, so you can also put these rooms together yourself if you have the funds and patience to do so.
Some of the items include a Pumpkin Four-Posted Bed, a Pumpkin Red-Eyed Moon painting, a cobweb wallpaper, sofas and more. These items are available for both coins or Playfish Cash, so there's a little something for everyone to enjoy the season.
Shrink or grow your Happy Island decor with new Magic Gems
Happy Island magical gems
Crowdstar's Happy Island has released two special items today that aren't your typical decorations. These two gems can be used to either enlarge or shrink your decorative items on your island. This is great if you've been trying to get that specific design you've been trying to create but can't get the right sized items you want. These gems are not cheap though, at 8 Facebook Credits (or 80 cents) each.
Topaz of Tinyness - 8 Facebook Credits
Garnet of Giants - 8 Facebook Credits
We like when game developers give us the opportunity to further customize our decorations by changing their color or allow them to be rotated. Now, Happy Island players can shrink or grow their attractions or decorations.
Crowdstar's Happy Island has released two special items today that aren't your typical decorations. These two gems can be used to either enlarge or shrink your decorative items on your island. This is great if you've been trying to get that specific design you've been trying to create but can't get the right sized items you want. These gems are not cheap though, at 8 Facebook Credits (or 80 cents) each.
Topaz of Tinyness - 8 Facebook Credits
Garnet of Giants - 8 Facebook Credits
We like when game developers give us the opportunity to further customize our decorations by changing their color or allow them to be rotated. Now, Happy Island players can shrink or grow their attractions or decorations.
Happy Aquarium gets in the Halloween spirit with new decorations
Crowdstar's Happy Aquarium has already released some spooky Halloween fish, but now the rest of the decorations have also been launched to the world. A new set of creepy decorations for your tank is now available in the store, and we have everything you need to know to deck out your aquarium for the holiday. Here's what you can find right now in the store:
Haunted House - 13 Facebook Credits
Halloween Black Cat - 150 coins
Deep Sea Devil - 11 Facebook Credits
Happy Halloween Grave - 5 Facebook Credits
Dracula Coffin - 10 Facebook Credits
Halloween Tombstone - 7 Facebook Credits
Halloween Cauldron - 150 coins
Cemetery Background - 30 Facebook Credits
These prices are really affordable. Aside from the tank background, the most expensive decoration is only $1.30, and that's for the big Haunted House shown on the right. Everything else is definitely reasonable, and you should be able to fill your tank up with Halloween items before the big date in just over a week. Happy Haunting!
Haunted House - 13 Facebook Credits
Halloween Black Cat - 150 coins
Deep Sea Devil - 11 Facebook Credits
Happy Halloween Grave - 5 Facebook Credits
Dracula Coffin - 10 Facebook Credits
Halloween Tombstone - 7 Facebook Credits
Halloween Cauldron - 150 coins
Cemetery Background - 30 Facebook Credits
These prices are really affordable. Aside from the tank background, the most expensive decoration is only $1.30, and that's for the big Haunted House shown on the right. Everything else is definitely reasonable, and you should be able to fill your tank up with Halloween items before the big date in just over a week. Happy Haunting!
Thursday, February 2, 2012
FarmVille Sneak Peek: Jack-o-Squirrel & Thanksgiving Topiary
The Thanksgiving celebration in FarmVille is gearing up to be quite the feast (at least visually), if the newest leaked images are anything to go by. This time around, we have a FarmVille Sneak Peek of a cute little Jack-o-Squirrel (a squirrel sticking its head out of pumpkin) and a lovely Thanksgiving Topiary (a wheelbarrow filled with pumpkins and leaves).
These items have not been given an official release date in the game, and in fact, there is no guarantee that they will ever release, so keep that in mind.
If these items do launch in the game, we'd expect them both to be decorative items available in the game's store, since it seems that Zynga is focusing on Mums for the season's free gift selection.
These items have not been given an official release date in the game, and in fact, there is no guarantee that they will ever release, so keep that in mind.
If these items do launch in the game, we'd expect them both to be decorative items available in the game's store, since it seems that Zynga is focusing on Mums for the season's free gift selection.
FarmVille Sneak Peek: Animal (Thanksgiving?) Floats
Thanks to some new leaked images, we can bring you another FarmVille Sneak Peek, offering details of items that may or may not be coming to FarmVille in the near future.
This time around, we have images of three animal balloon floats. These floats are the Horse Float, the Cow Float, and the Duck Float, and they are all comprised of a large floating balloon (that animates by floating up and down, with tails or legs flapping/moving, depending on the offering), along with a lovely float at the bottom, to which the balloon is connected by strings.
If we didn't know any better (and we don't), we'd guess that these items will be released as part of the Thanksgiving day celebration in the game, as they seem to pay homage to the time-honored tradition of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade. Only time will tell at this point, however.
As usual, there is no guarantee that these items will actually be released in the game, so keep that in mind.
This time around, we have images of three animal balloon floats. These floats are the Horse Float, the Cow Float, and the Duck Float, and they are all comprised of a large floating balloon (that animates by floating up and down, with tails or legs flapping/moving, depending on the offering), along with a lovely float at the bottom, to which the balloon is connected by strings.
If we didn't know any better (and we don't), we'd guess that these items will be released as part of the Thanksgiving day celebration in the game, as they seem to pay homage to the time-honored tradition of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade. Only time will tell at this point, however.
As usual, there is no guarantee that these items will actually be released in the game, so keep that in mind.
FarmVille Sneak Peek: Thanksgiving Gnomes
It's been a big day for leaked images from Zynga's FarmVille, allowing us to bring you another FarmVille Sneak Peek of items that may or may not be coming to the farming giant in the near future.
This time around, we have images of three new gnomes, a fan-favorite collectible. These gnomes are the Pocahontas Gnome, the Pilgrim Girl Gnome and the Pilgrim Boy Gnome.
Unfortunately, we don't have any details as to when (if) these items will actually release, or whether or not they'll be available for Farm Cash or coins. If history has taught us anything, however, you may want to save up some Farm Cash to purchase these little cuties when they launch.
As usual, there is no guarantee that these items will actually launch in FarmVille, so keep that in mind.
This time around, we have images of three new gnomes, a fan-favorite collectible. These gnomes are the Pocahontas Gnome, the Pilgrim Girl Gnome and the Pilgrim Boy Gnome.
Unfortunately, we don't have any details as to when (if) these items will actually release, or whether or not they'll be available for Farm Cash or coins. If history has taught us anything, however, you may want to save up some Farm Cash to purchase these little cuties when they launch.
As usual, there is no guarantee that these items will actually launch in FarmVille, so keep that in mind.
Restaurant City Indian Buffet Table allows customers to serve themselves
Playfish teased us last week, that a new item would be launching in the Restaurant City today, and that time has come. The new item is the Indian Buffet Table, and it fits right in with the current Bollywood item theme.
What makes this item so special (at least in Playfish's eyes), is the fact that it's available to purchase for coins. This functional item is indeed available for coins, but we doubt the majority of the game's user-base will be able to afford it, as it goes for a whopping 240,000 coins.
The Buffet Table functions as an Arcade Machine or sorts, allowing customers to serve themselves and endless supply of gourmet Indian dishes. It earns 500 coins every four hours, meaning that you could make a nice profit off of the item, if you played the game with enough regularity to always cash out your profits (never fear, you won't lose anything if you go away for a while, you just won't earn anything past the 500 coin cap either).
This Buffet Table will only be available for the next two days, so shop while you can if you want to add it to your restaurant.
What makes this item so special (at least in Playfish's eyes), is the fact that it's available to purchase for coins. This functional item is indeed available for coins, but we doubt the majority of the game's user-base will be able to afford it, as it goes for a whopping 240,000 coins.
The Buffet Table functions as an Arcade Machine or sorts, allowing customers to serve themselves and endless supply of gourmet Indian dishes. It earns 500 coins every four hours, meaning that you could make a nice profit off of the item, if you played the game with enough regularity to always cash out your profits (never fear, you won't lose anything if you go away for a while, you just won't earn anything past the 500 coin cap either).
This Buffet Table will only be available for the next two days, so shop while you can if you want to add it to your restaurant.
FrontierVille's Gold Rush possibly coming soon with golden items
Gold Hot Tub Gold Outhouse Gold Water Tower
The wait for what once was one of the nation's greatest resources might be over sooner than we think in FrontierVille. Calin of FrontierVille Info has dug up some unreleased items in the nearly ubiquitous Zynga game that suggest the Gold Rush could be here soon. So, how did arrive at this conclusion?
Every single item is golden. The whole lot of 'em. Either this is some sort of sick prank or Zynga has finally completed the first full expansion to FrontierVille. Our guess is the latter, because we hope that the developer wouldn't be so sadistic. Our second guess is that gold will be a new resource similar to Wood and will be required to craft these items in a new building, but again, that's also us hoping.
This is what the comments is for: hopeful speculation. So, what do you think these new items imply? Is this a telltale sign of the Gold Rush?
The wait for what once was one of the nation's greatest resources might be over sooner than we think in FrontierVille. Calin of FrontierVille Info has dug up some unreleased items in the nearly ubiquitous Zynga game that suggest the Gold Rush could be here soon. So, how did arrive at this conclusion?
Every single item is golden. The whole lot of 'em. Either this is some sort of sick prank or Zynga has finally completed the first full expansion to FrontierVille. Our guess is the latter, because we hope that the developer wouldn't be so sadistic. Our second guess is that gold will be a new resource similar to Wood and will be required to craft these items in a new building, but again, that's also us hoping.
This is what the comments is for: hopeful speculation. So, what do you think these new items imply? Is this a telltale sign of the Gold Rush?
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
PopCap launches Bejeweled 3 from English mum's living room tea party
Bejeweled 3 Tea Party
Forget those glitzy and glamorous launch parties for the year's biggest games like Halo: Reach or Call of Duty: Black Ops. The sequel to one of the best selling casual games of all time, Bejeweled 3, launched from a British mother's living room. A bold move by famed casual game developer PopCap, the comfier launch was made in honor of recent research targeting the largest demographic of Bejeweled players: middle-aged, tech savvy mothers.
According to a survey of 2,000 casual gamers conducted by 72 Point, the average player of games like Bejeweled is "a 43-year-old married mum called Sue with two grown up children who counts watching Midsomer Murders and playing on her own games console as among her favourite pastimes." While this is an especially personalized and hilarious account of a statistic, it checks out with claims made elsewhere.
Guests invited to the launch party included a Women's Institute secretary, a granny, a Welsh librarian, a glamorous banker and a trendy dad to name a few. And what did they once they arrived in the Northern London living room of this British mother of two? Why, they had a tea party over Bejeweled 3, of course.
Despite containing twice the game modes, better visuals and sound and eight mini games, what has to be the game's most unique and interesting feature is its Zen Mode. Neil Shah, a member of the Stress Management Society, was invited to the launch tea party to test this new game mode and says, "Bejeweled 3's new Zen mode is a great idea for helping players chill out even more and put all their worries to one side." According to PopCap, Bejeweled 2 was proven to reduce stress levels by 47 percent and the new Zen Mode is designed to create a "mental vacation" for players. Players can find their very own mind escape first thing tomorrow.
Forget those glitzy and glamorous launch parties for the year's biggest games like Halo: Reach or Call of Duty: Black Ops. The sequel to one of the best selling casual games of all time, Bejeweled 3, launched from a British mother's living room. A bold move by famed casual game developer PopCap, the comfier launch was made in honor of recent research targeting the largest demographic of Bejeweled players: middle-aged, tech savvy mothers.
According to a survey of 2,000 casual gamers conducted by 72 Point, the average player of games like Bejeweled is "a 43-year-old married mum called Sue with two grown up children who counts watching Midsomer Murders and playing on her own games console as among her favourite pastimes." While this is an especially personalized and hilarious account of a statistic, it checks out with claims made elsewhere.
Guests invited to the launch party included a Women's Institute secretary, a granny, a Welsh librarian, a glamorous banker and a trendy dad to name a few. And what did they once they arrived in the Northern London living room of this British mother of two? Why, they had a tea party over Bejeweled 3, of course.
Despite containing twice the game modes, better visuals and sound and eight mini games, what has to be the game's most unique and interesting feature is its Zen Mode. Neil Shah, a member of the Stress Management Society, was invited to the launch tea party to test this new game mode and says, "Bejeweled 3's new Zen mode is a great idea for helping players chill out even more and put all their worries to one side." According to PopCap, Bejeweled 2 was proven to reduce stress levels by 47 percent and the new Zen Mode is designed to create a "mental vacation" for players. Players can find their very own mind escape first thing tomorrow.
FrontierVille Level Cap increases to 150, but not without a hitch
Level Up Glitch
Hold your applause, please. Zynga announced today that the Level Cap in FrontierVille has been raised to 150. This will allow players to advance even further in the game to obscene levels. Unfortunately, veteran pioneers everywhere are experiencing issues when leveling up past 100. The most common of these issues is Frontier Jack presenting players with a congratulatory server sync error, forcing them to refresh their pages. Upon reentering, their progress has been deleted up to just before the final experience points required to level up.
And then it happens again and again, thus crippling their game to a FrontierVille rendition of Groundhog Day. Well, except with less Bill Murray and more frustration. The Zynga community team is reportedly on the case, according to a prompt forum post, but it's uncertain when this issue will be fixed. So, welcome to Level 100, pioneer pros, and enjoy your stay--it might be a long one. Now, here's something to look forward to: you'll need to accumulate 5 million XP to reach Level 150 from Level 100, according to FrontierVille Wiki. How's that for hardcore?
Have any of you experienced the current level-up glitch? If not, why not give your fellow frontier folk a hand and tip us off to how you dodged it.
Hold your applause, please. Zynga announced today that the Level Cap in FrontierVille has been raised to 150. This will allow players to advance even further in the game to obscene levels. Unfortunately, veteran pioneers everywhere are experiencing issues when leveling up past 100. The most common of these issues is Frontier Jack presenting players with a congratulatory server sync error, forcing them to refresh their pages. Upon reentering, their progress has been deleted up to just before the final experience points required to level up.
And then it happens again and again, thus crippling their game to a FrontierVille rendition of Groundhog Day. Well, except with less Bill Murray and more frustration. The Zynga community team is reportedly on the case, according to a prompt forum post, but it's uncertain when this issue will be fixed. So, welcome to Level 100, pioneer pros, and enjoy your stay--it might be a long one. Now, here's something to look forward to: you'll need to accumulate 5 million XP to reach Level 150 from Level 100, according to FrontierVille Wiki. How's that for hardcore?
Have any of you experienced the current level-up glitch? If not, why not give your fellow frontier folk a hand and tip us off to how you dodged it.
First Facebook-connected Nintendo DS game: TouchMaster: Connect
It's finally time to get social on two screens. Publisher Warner Bros. and developer Double Tap Games announced today that TouchMaster: Connect, the first Nintendo DS to feature social media integration, is available in the U.K. for £19.99. The game is a collection several ports from the immensely popular--if you can remember them-- Megatouch touchscreen systems you lushes have surely seen in the corner of many a bar counter courtesy of AMI Entertainment Network.
Players can post their highest scores from 20 recognizable bar and restaurant touch games like Tricky Fish, Dodge Bull (pictured) and Super Boxxi to Facebook and Twitter through the DS' Nintendo WiFi Connection. You'll be able to create a gamer profile with which you can link both your Facebook and Twitter accounts to share your scores and achievement badges to all of your Internet friends. In addition to competing via social networks, you can test your stylus-smashing might against players across the globe in online leaderboards. And on the local level, players can share select games with friends who don't own the TouchMaster: Connect through DS Download Play and "System Swap" multiplayer.
While we've heard mention of Nintendo's social goals for its Nintendo 3DS already, it's surprising developers have found a way to squeeze social network connection into the DS' older models.
Considering AMI's touchscreens are in nearly every bar I've ever been to (not to say that number is astronomical...), you can almost bet your next beer that TouchMaster: Connect will arrive in the U.S. In fact, it releases tomorrow. Just don't bring your DS to the bar unless you're not trying to take anyone home that night.
Will you be picking up TouchMaster: Connect for the social features? Do you think this marks a distinct future for Nintendo's handheld games?
Players can post their highest scores from 20 recognizable bar and restaurant touch games like Tricky Fish, Dodge Bull (pictured) and Super Boxxi to Facebook and Twitter through the DS' Nintendo WiFi Connection. You'll be able to create a gamer profile with which you can link both your Facebook and Twitter accounts to share your scores and achievement badges to all of your Internet friends. In addition to competing via social networks, you can test your stylus-smashing might against players across the globe in online leaderboards. And on the local level, players can share select games with friends who don't own the TouchMaster: Connect through DS Download Play and "System Swap" multiplayer.
While we've heard mention of Nintendo's social goals for its Nintendo 3DS already, it's surprising developers have found a way to squeeze social network connection into the DS' older models.
Considering AMI's touchscreens are in nearly every bar I've ever been to (not to say that number is astronomical...), you can almost bet your next beer that TouchMaster: Connect will arrive in the U.S. In fact, it releases tomorrow. Just don't bring your DS to the bar unless you're not trying to take anyone home that night.
Will you be picking up TouchMaster: Connect for the social features? Do you think this marks a distinct future for Nintendo's handheld games?
Top Chef Challenge on Facebook: Please pack your knives and go
Top Chef Challenge, a new Facebook game which launched same night at the debut of Top Chef All Stars (what a coinky-dink!) lets you choose for your favorite chef from the new show (comprised of 18 chefs from previous seasons) and earn them as many points as possible by logging into the game daily to complete challenges.
Gallery: Top Chef Challenge on Facebook
The advergame works like this: Choose a "Chef'testant" that you want to root for, and then you'll be presented with a series of challenges, which when completed, will earn your chef points for the week. The first day's challenges include sharing your pick -- twice -- on Facebook or Twitter, each resulting in a certain number of points for your pick. Once the first two challenges are complete, then you're given a link to share with friends on Twitter and Facebook, which links directly back to the application. Do this to earn more points for your chef. The chef with the most points at the end of the week will in the challenge, and you can track your chef's standings in a leaderboard.
So now's time for the good news and the bad news:
The good: If your chef is kicked off the show, he/she will still be in the Facebook game.
The bad: This advergame is so dull and unimaginative that it just might be the worst offender in a long line of offensive advergames. All you do is share your pick on your Facebook wall and Twitter, then harass friends with a link to the game in exchange for maybe meeting one of the chefs or to "win other prizes." Blech.
top chef challenge
More bad: Right after I chose my chef (I chose Spike Mendelsohn because of his cool hat), I went to complete the first challenge, but could not. Instead of found a message that said, "Whoops look like you didn't complete the challenge in time..." What? I JUST signed up for the game -- how did I not complete it in time?
I decided to complete the second challenge (by sharing my pick on my Facebook wall), but then was not able to complete the third challenge because you have to complete the first two tasks to unlock it. And, since that wasn't an option, no third challenge for me.
And, if whomever made this thinks I'll back tomorrow to try again -- they'd be wrong. So, so wrong. Top Chef Challenge on Facebook, please pack your knives and go.
Gallery: Top Chef Challenge on Facebook
The advergame works like this: Choose a "Chef'testant" that you want to root for, and then you'll be presented with a series of challenges, which when completed, will earn your chef points for the week. The first day's challenges include sharing your pick -- twice -- on Facebook or Twitter, each resulting in a certain number of points for your pick. Once the first two challenges are complete, then you're given a link to share with friends on Twitter and Facebook, which links directly back to the application. Do this to earn more points for your chef. The chef with the most points at the end of the week will in the challenge, and you can track your chef's standings in a leaderboard.
So now's time for the good news and the bad news:
The good: If your chef is kicked off the show, he/she will still be in the Facebook game.
The bad: This advergame is so dull and unimaginative that it just might be the worst offender in a long line of offensive advergames. All you do is share your pick on your Facebook wall and Twitter, then harass friends with a link to the game in exchange for maybe meeting one of the chefs or to "win other prizes." Blech.
top chef challenge
More bad: Right after I chose my chef (I chose Spike Mendelsohn because of his cool hat), I went to complete the first challenge, but could not. Instead of found a message that said, "Whoops look like you didn't complete the challenge in time..." What? I JUST signed up for the game -- how did I not complete it in time?
I decided to complete the second challenge (by sharing my pick on my Facebook wall), but then was not able to complete the third challenge because you have to complete the first two tasks to unlock it. And, since that wasn't an option, no third challenge for me.
And, if whomever made this thinks I'll back tomorrow to try again -- they'd be wrong. So, so wrong. Top Chef Challenge on Facebook, please pack your knives and go.
Atari and Asteroids blast onto Facebook with Asteroids Online
Asteroids Online
One of the original space odysseys in video gaming, Asteroids, has reached Facebook in the much updated form of Asteroids Online. Made possible by its original publisher, Atari, Asteroids Online brings back the same gameplay you adored in the early 80s onward with a massive suite of features designed for the modern, social gaming crowds. Using the now-popular Unity 3D engine, much of this Asteroids overhaul is in 3D including its various ships and the infamous asteroids. But the overhaul doesn't stop there--this is not your average Facebook game. And that's the whole point.
"We're consciously trying to stay away from the mindless click fests," Atari's VP of Consumer Experience, Patrick Ford, told IGN. "There are millions of different types of people on Facebook. The FarmVille-playing housewives might not like Asteroids, but we're confident plenty of people will."
Find our full preview after the break.
Campaign Menu
While this is still Asteroids, nearly everything aside from the basic gameplay of steer and shoot has changed. And with that said, a detailed tutorial is in order, but don't worry--it won't be too long before you get to blow stuff up. Asteroids Online operates in Missions, like most social games, though these are far more interactive and skill-based than most . And while most of them involve blowing flying hunks of rock to bits, there are some that pit you against the clock or toe-to-toe with alien enemies.
In addition to the original combat of steering your ship via the arrows keys and firing away furiously with the space bar, the 'V' key activates an interesting ability called "Hyperspace." This new feature warps your ship into a wormhole of sorts and back out into usually a safe area, which is perfect for when you're in a pinch and need to get out fast. (Though, it does take time to recharge.) This is also useful for luring enemy aliens into asteroids, which can take them out too (and they don't have shields).
Damage report
Missions are split up into three Sectors, or rounds. Your job in each Sector is to destroy enough rock chunks to fill up the meter on the top right corner of the screen completely. However, each new round isn't exactly a fresh start as the damage to your shields will carry over into the next Sector until you complete the mission. Luckily in this version of the game, death isn't necessarily 'Game Over.' But if your ship sustains maximum damage, you will have to pay up in Credits to repair or if you're too low on Credits you may abandon the mission. Doing this will result in you losing the Energy needed to access the mission. Abort too many times and you'll be at a standstill.
Of course, Energy is what drives your actions in this game and you'll need gobs of it if you want to play for longer than a few missions at a time. In addition to Energy refilling over time, players can currently gift each other Energy in packs of 40. You can also purchase Atari Credits to pay for more Energy in packs of 400, 1,000, 2,000 and 4,000 for $5, $12.50, $25 and $50, respectively. This paid currency can also be used to speed along the timed process of ship upgrades which cost Credits regardless, the game's natural currency found through blasting asteroids while on Missions.
Galactic Map
Much unlike the original Asteroids, this update contains six ships with several different weapon and shield configurations. Believe it or not, this multitude of ships and weapons matters when it comes to dealing with the game's variety of enemies and situations. They'll also be necessary when moving onward to new star systems, which can be accessed through the game's Galactic Map feature. Each new area requires a certain amount of experience to enter and will be blocked off by a red beam until that time comes. These additional zones will certainly contain more missions and hopefully more ships and weapons, but it's too early to tell given the game just launched recently.
Keeping in mind that Asteroids Online is still in its beta phase. There are still a number of mysterious features like "Champion" and "Challenge" that have yet to surface in addition to what appears to be a worldwide leaderboard. Despite the lack of these features, Atari has come out swinging on Facebook through a massive overhaul to one of the most beloved retro games and transforming it into something relevant.
Click here to play Asteroids on Facebook Now>
One of the original space odysseys in video gaming, Asteroids, has reached Facebook in the much updated form of Asteroids Online. Made possible by its original publisher, Atari, Asteroids Online brings back the same gameplay you adored in the early 80s onward with a massive suite of features designed for the modern, social gaming crowds. Using the now-popular Unity 3D engine, much of this Asteroids overhaul is in 3D including its various ships and the infamous asteroids. But the overhaul doesn't stop there--this is not your average Facebook game. And that's the whole point.
"We're consciously trying to stay away from the mindless click fests," Atari's VP of Consumer Experience, Patrick Ford, told IGN. "There are millions of different types of people on Facebook. The FarmVille-playing housewives might not like Asteroids, but we're confident plenty of people will."
Find our full preview after the break.
Campaign Menu
While this is still Asteroids, nearly everything aside from the basic gameplay of steer and shoot has changed. And with that said, a detailed tutorial is in order, but don't worry--it won't be too long before you get to blow stuff up. Asteroids Online operates in Missions, like most social games, though these are far more interactive and skill-based than most . And while most of them involve blowing flying hunks of rock to bits, there are some that pit you against the clock or toe-to-toe with alien enemies.
In addition to the original combat of steering your ship via the arrows keys and firing away furiously with the space bar, the 'V' key activates an interesting ability called "Hyperspace." This new feature warps your ship into a wormhole of sorts and back out into usually a safe area, which is perfect for when you're in a pinch and need to get out fast. (Though, it does take time to recharge.) This is also useful for luring enemy aliens into asteroids, which can take them out too (and they don't have shields).
Damage report
Missions are split up into three Sectors, or rounds. Your job in each Sector is to destroy enough rock chunks to fill up the meter on the top right corner of the screen completely. However, each new round isn't exactly a fresh start as the damage to your shields will carry over into the next Sector until you complete the mission. Luckily in this version of the game, death isn't necessarily 'Game Over.' But if your ship sustains maximum damage, you will have to pay up in Credits to repair or if you're too low on Credits you may abandon the mission. Doing this will result in you losing the Energy needed to access the mission. Abort too many times and you'll be at a standstill.
Of course, Energy is what drives your actions in this game and you'll need gobs of it if you want to play for longer than a few missions at a time. In addition to Energy refilling over time, players can currently gift each other Energy in packs of 40. You can also purchase Atari Credits to pay for more Energy in packs of 400, 1,000, 2,000 and 4,000 for $5, $12.50, $25 and $50, respectively. This paid currency can also be used to speed along the timed process of ship upgrades which cost Credits regardless, the game's natural currency found through blasting asteroids while on Missions.
Galactic Map
Much unlike the original Asteroids, this update contains six ships with several different weapon and shield configurations. Believe it or not, this multitude of ships and weapons matters when it comes to dealing with the game's variety of enemies and situations. They'll also be necessary when moving onward to new star systems, which can be accessed through the game's Galactic Map feature. Each new area requires a certain amount of experience to enter and will be blocked off by a red beam until that time comes. These additional zones will certainly contain more missions and hopefully more ships and weapons, but it's too early to tell given the game just launched recently.
Keeping in mind that Asteroids Online is still in its beta phase. There are still a number of mysterious features like "Champion" and "Challenge" that have yet to surface in addition to what appears to be a worldwide leaderboard. Despite the lack of these features, Atari has come out swinging on Facebook through a massive overhaul to one of the most beloved retro games and transforming it into something relevant.
Click here to play Asteroids on Facebook Now>
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