Happy Pets Twin Idol and Coin Idol in store
Like the old Doublemint gum commercials, two new Limited Edition idols at the Happy Pets store have players seeing double -- the Twin Idol and Coin Idol (image above). Technically, there are four new idols in the store since both idols come with 3-day and 7-day versions. And yes, this means that not only are the idols for a limited time only, but so are the perks that these idols bring with them.
Coin Idol doubles the amount of coins you earn from cleaning and petting, while Twin Idol promises that you'll "get twins from every successful breeding." (NOTE: This doesn't mean that you'll get twins each time your pets breed. For that, you'd need the Love Potion or the Love Idol which you can get by clicking on the "Breed" button after clicking your pet.)
The 3-day Coin Idol costs 28 Facebook Credits (or $2.80 USD), while the 7-day costs 52 FB Credits ($5.20 USD). Finally, the 3-day Twin Idol goes for 40 FB Credits ($4 USD), and the 7-day version costs 76 FB Credits ($7.60 USD).
Monday, February 13, 2012
FishVille's Gulf Coast Turtle helps Audubon raise awareness and funds in oil spill
FishVille Audubon Society Gulf Coast Turtle
Images of the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico continue to inspire a great deal of anger and heartbreak, but many people also offer hope by helping clean up the mess left by the spill. Zynga's FishVille and the Audubon Society have paired up this week to raise funds and awareness with their new Gulf Coast Turtle.
The Turtle came out last week and can be found under the "Creatures" tab at the in-game store. This Turtle is only available for the next 4 days. Zynga is promising to relinquish 50% of the Turtle's sales to the Audubon Society and players have the option to pay either 25 or 200 Sand Dollars for it. Sand Dollars can be bought from the "+ Add Sand Dollars" tab on the top of the game window. A set of 25 Sand Dollars cost $5 USD, and while there's no set of 200, you can buy a set of 240 Sand Dollars for $40 USD.
Adopt the FishVille Baby Gulf Coast Turtle
A new Baby Gulf Coast Turtle has also shown up in the game, which can be adopted via Facebook Wall posts, to help spread the word.
Images of the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico continue to inspire a great deal of anger and heartbreak, but many people also offer hope by helping clean up the mess left by the spill. Zynga's FishVille and the Audubon Society have paired up this week to raise funds and awareness with their new Gulf Coast Turtle.
The Turtle came out last week and can be found under the "Creatures" tab at the in-game store. This Turtle is only available for the next 4 days. Zynga is promising to relinquish 50% of the Turtle's sales to the Audubon Society and players have the option to pay either 25 or 200 Sand Dollars for it. Sand Dollars can be bought from the "+ Add Sand Dollars" tab on the top of the game window. A set of 25 Sand Dollars cost $5 USD, and while there's no set of 200, you can buy a set of 240 Sand Dollars for $40 USD.
Adopt the FishVille Baby Gulf Coast Turtle
A new Baby Gulf Coast Turtle has also shown up in the game, which can be adopted via Facebook Wall posts, to help spread the word.
Hotel City: Unlock new Exclusive NYC themed rooms and backgrounds
Hotel City New York Background at the Bellboy Hotel
Hotel City has spent a good several weeks teasing us with their new backgrounds. Players first saw the Night time background in action with the game's first-ever flags release. Today, you can see the Playfish's Bellboy Hotel has hit the big time with their new, New York background (pictured above). Along with these new backgrounds are exclusive, themed rooms already furnished with the latest furniture and decor.
Hotel City Night View Collection
Hotel City New York Collection
But unless you're willing to shell out Playfish Cash, decorating your hotel with the new themes isn't going to be easy. Hotel City has paired up the two backgrounds into the Night and New York packages. The Night package costs 50 Playfish Cash, while the NY one costs 66 PFC. (NOTE: If you're willing to be patient and collect "luxuries" to earn these packages, the PFC price will go down as your luxuries collection increases.)
Hotel City New York Luxuries
To get the New York package, you need 33 "Luxury Items" -- fifteen Broadway tickets, ten "1st class airline tickets" and eight cups of "Hot green tea". You can only get the Broadway tickets by collecting them from the wall posts of your friends, or by visiting the hotels of neighbors sporting the icon of a little brown shopping bag tied with a yellow ribbon. When you get a Luxury Item, you can post on your wall to share it. These can also be gotten by generous friends who gift you.
Hotel City Luxury Item Wall Post
The Night collection works pretty much the same way, but it requires only 25 Luxury Items -- fifteen Gold Watches and twenty "1st class airline tickets."
Hotel City Night Luxuries
While it's a lot of work, these new backgrounds look good enough to be worth it. I should mention that the niftiest thing about these is that they're not entirely static images. While you scroll across a hotel's street, you get a noticeable shift in perspective. Anyway, we expect more backgrounds to roll out soon. So what is Hotel City's next planned stop? SAN FRANCISCO!
Hotel City San Francisco Teaser
Hotel City has spent a good several weeks teasing us with their new backgrounds. Players first saw the Night time background in action with the game's first-ever flags release. Today, you can see the Playfish's Bellboy Hotel has hit the big time with their new, New York background (pictured above). Along with these new backgrounds are exclusive, themed rooms already furnished with the latest furniture and decor.
Hotel City Night View Collection
Hotel City New York Collection
But unless you're willing to shell out Playfish Cash, decorating your hotel with the new themes isn't going to be easy. Hotel City has paired up the two backgrounds into the Night and New York packages. The Night package costs 50 Playfish Cash, while the NY one costs 66 PFC. (NOTE: If you're willing to be patient and collect "luxuries" to earn these packages, the PFC price will go down as your luxuries collection increases.)
Hotel City New York Luxuries
To get the New York package, you need 33 "Luxury Items" -- fifteen Broadway tickets, ten "1st class airline tickets" and eight cups of "Hot green tea". You can only get the Broadway tickets by collecting them from the wall posts of your friends, or by visiting the hotels of neighbors sporting the icon of a little brown shopping bag tied with a yellow ribbon. When you get a Luxury Item, you can post on your wall to share it. These can also be gotten by generous friends who gift you.
Hotel City Luxury Item Wall Post
The Night collection works pretty much the same way, but it requires only 25 Luxury Items -- fifteen Gold Watches and twenty "1st class airline tickets."
Hotel City Night Luxuries
While it's a lot of work, these new backgrounds look good enough to be worth it. I should mention that the niftiest thing about these is that they're not entirely static images. While you scroll across a hotel's street, you get a noticeable shift in perspective. Anyway, we expect more backgrounds to roll out soon. So what is Hotel City's next planned stop? SAN FRANCISCO!
Hotel City San Francisco Teaser
Playfish MIA from Electronic Arts' big E3 press conference
At the annual Electronic Entertainment Expo, also called E3, publishers get together to show their wares to the press and other members of the game community. Basically, if you pay attention to this event, you'll have a pretty good idea what big games will be coming out the rest of the year.
So imagine our surprise when we went to the big Electronic Arts press conference, and there was a bunch of hullabaloo over high-action gun toting games such as Bulletstorm, Crysis 2, Medal of Honor, Battlefield Bad Company Vietnam, and even a quick nod to EA Sports best-selling Madden football game series, but ne're a mention of FIFA Superstars on Facebook, or any other game that EA's recently acquired social gaming company Playfish might be working on behind the scenes. There's been rumors flying that there will be a Madden or Need for Speed game on Facebook, but nothing was confirmed or denied at today's big press event. What gives, EA?
So imagine our surprise when we went to the big Electronic Arts press conference, and there was a bunch of hullabaloo over high-action gun toting games such as Bulletstorm, Crysis 2, Medal of Honor, Battlefield Bad Company Vietnam, and even a quick nod to EA Sports best-selling Madden football game series, but ne're a mention of FIFA Superstars on Facebook, or any other game that EA's recently acquired social gaming company Playfish might be working on behind the scenes. There's been rumors flying that there will be a Madden or Need for Speed game on Facebook, but nothing was confirmed or denied at today's big press event. What gives, EA?
Getting Ahead with the Mob Wars Calculator
Looking to get ahead in Mob Wars? There are several tips and tools available to help you advance more quickly. One of the newest entries is the Mob Wars Calculator coming to you from Sal the Foot's Mob Wars Guide. The concept originally started with a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet from Jester Nim and was later taken over by Craig Goley with even later maintenance help from Melissa Keays. Now that Craig abandoned his spreadsheet, Steve Lugon, aka Sal the Foot, offers a reworked spreadsheet recoded by Mark Williams.
What does the Mob Wars Calculator offer? A quick and easy way to determine what items for your armory you need to buy and sell and what properties are best to optimize income. As your mob grows in size, you want to keep them well armored but want to keep upkeep costs down so your income and thus your bounty increases. By utilizing the calculator, you'll get easy help on what to buy next and when to sell items. As cash flow permits you to buy new and better items and you get more freebies for helping other mobsters, finishing heists and completing boss battles, the spreadsheet will remind you to sell off the old unneeded items that require upkeep. And, on the property side, you'll see what are the next best properties to buy for the highest return on investment, thus optimizing income.
For those familiar with one of the earlier spreadsheet versions, you no longer have to manually enter in your stockpile. Instead, by just copying and pasting the stockpile into the four magic spreadsheet cells, the spreadsheet automatically detects what you have. It is that quick and easy now to upgrade spreadsheet versions as new toys become available in the game.
What does the Mob Wars Calculator offer? A quick and easy way to determine what items for your armory you need to buy and sell and what properties are best to optimize income. As your mob grows in size, you want to keep them well armored but want to keep upkeep costs down so your income and thus your bounty increases. By utilizing the calculator, you'll get easy help on what to buy next and when to sell items. As cash flow permits you to buy new and better items and you get more freebies for helping other mobsters, finishing heists and completing boss battles, the spreadsheet will remind you to sell off the old unneeded items that require upkeep. And, on the property side, you'll see what are the next best properties to buy for the highest return on investment, thus optimizing income.
For those familiar with one of the earlier spreadsheet versions, you no longer have to manually enter in your stockpile. Instead, by just copying and pasting the stockpile into the four magic spreadsheet cells, the spreadsheet automatically detects what you have. It is that quick and easy now to upgrade spreadsheet versions as new toys become available in the game.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Frontierville's limited edition garden items: Spiral Flower and Tree House
As part of the larger garden-themed release today, FrontierVille also rolled out two premium limited edition items. Both items will be available four roughly a week and the Spiral Flowers costs 14 Horseshoes and yields 84XP. The Tree House costs 20 Horseshoes and yields 120 XP.
If you have an image of these, send them to libe@games.com, and I'll feature them here.
What do you think of the Spiral Flower and Tree House? Are they worth the Horseshoes?
If you have an image of these, send them to libe@games.com, and I'll feature them here.
What do you think of the Spiral Flower and Tree House? Are they worth the Horseshoes?
FarmVille and Cascadian Farm promotion: Grow organic blueberries
FarmVille will be partnering with Cascadian Farm and, for the first time ever, will be introducing a sponsored branded in-game crop that will also be available to all farmers.
Cascadian Farm, originating in 1972, is one of the country's leading brands of organic foods, offering more than 80 products from ready-to-eat cereals and granola bars to frozen fruits and vegetables, juice concentrates and fruit spreads. People have enjoyed our great-tasting and convenient organic foods for more than 35 years. The Cascadian Home Farm is nestled in the foothills of the breathtaking North Cascades mountain range in western Washington's Upper Skagit Valley.
The upcoming FarmVille and Cascadian Farms cross promotional event will take place the week of July 19 through July 26.
*Dates are subject to change without notice.
Cascadian Farm, "a pioneer in the organic food industry" teams up with FarmVille as a week-long integration, that "will offer players the chance to purchase Organic Blueberries for their farms. In addition, players will receive a variety of other benefits, including coupon offers, organic and green living tips, and the opportunity to build their farm at a rapid speed."
Key Features of the FarmVille & Cascadian Promotion:
Organic Blueberries will be the highest Coin and Experience Point (XP) Crop of the Week- During this week-long integration, the Cascadian Farm branded crop will be the most profitable FarmVille crop offered in the game. It will also be available to purchase for all beginner (Level 1) and experienced players. Rumor has it that the Organic Blueberries crop will have Crop Mastery, as there are images of Organic Blueberries Crop Mastery signs.
Real-Life Farm Goes Virtual - The brand will recreate the real Cascadian Farm, located in the Upper Skagit Valley of Washington's North Cascade Mountains, as a virtual farm in FarmVille. Users can request to be the farm's neighbor by "friend-ing" Farmer Joe Cascadian online at Facebook here and by using the FarmVille application to become his neighbor in-game.
Marketing Manager of Cascadian Farm, Tim Goldsmid, explains "Given our heritage of engaging consumers to increase awareness and support for organic farming and the organic lifestyle, partnering with FarmVille was a natural fit for Cascadian Farm. We're excited to have the opportunity to partner with a leader in the online gaming world and offer unique ways for new and existing consumers to become involved with the brand."
Vish Makhijani, Zynga's Senior Vice President of Business Operations said, "When deciding on our first branded crop integration, we wanted to offer our users a unique opportunity that would benefit their gaming experience and add value to their lives both on and offline. Cascadian Farm perfectly aligned with our vision and what the FarmVille game represents."
As we learn more details about this upcoming promotion we will be sure to share with you here!
Are you excited about this FarmVille-Cascadian Farm collaboration? Will you participate?
Cascadian Farm, originating in 1972, is one of the country's leading brands of organic foods, offering more than 80 products from ready-to-eat cereals and granola bars to frozen fruits and vegetables, juice concentrates and fruit spreads. People have enjoyed our great-tasting and convenient organic foods for more than 35 years. The Cascadian Home Farm is nestled in the foothills of the breathtaking North Cascades mountain range in western Washington's Upper Skagit Valley.
The upcoming FarmVille and Cascadian Farms cross promotional event will take place the week of July 19 through July 26.
*Dates are subject to change without notice.
Cascadian Farm, "a pioneer in the organic food industry" teams up with FarmVille as a week-long integration, that "will offer players the chance to purchase Organic Blueberries for their farms. In addition, players will receive a variety of other benefits, including coupon offers, organic and green living tips, and the opportunity to build their farm at a rapid speed."
Key Features of the FarmVille & Cascadian Promotion:
Organic Blueberries will be the highest Coin and Experience Point (XP) Crop of the Week- During this week-long integration, the Cascadian Farm branded crop will be the most profitable FarmVille crop offered in the game. It will also be available to purchase for all beginner (Level 1) and experienced players. Rumor has it that the Organic Blueberries crop will have Crop Mastery, as there are images of Organic Blueberries Crop Mastery signs.
Real-Life Farm Goes Virtual - The brand will recreate the real Cascadian Farm, located in the Upper Skagit Valley of Washington's North Cascade Mountains, as a virtual farm in FarmVille. Users can request to be the farm's neighbor by "friend-ing" Farmer Joe Cascadian online at Facebook here and by using the FarmVille application to become his neighbor in-game.
Marketing Manager of Cascadian Farm, Tim Goldsmid, explains "Given our heritage of engaging consumers to increase awareness and support for organic farming and the organic lifestyle, partnering with FarmVille was a natural fit for Cascadian Farm. We're excited to have the opportunity to partner with a leader in the online gaming world and offer unique ways for new and existing consumers to become involved with the brand."
Vish Makhijani, Zynga's Senior Vice President of Business Operations said, "When deciding on our first branded crop integration, we wanted to offer our users a unique opportunity that would benefit their gaming experience and add value to their lives both on and offline. Cascadian Farm perfectly aligned with our vision and what the FarmVille game represents."
As we learn more details about this upcoming promotion we will be sure to share with you here!
Are you excited about this FarmVille-Cascadian Farm collaboration? Will you participate?
Mafia Wars quietly rolls out new 'Live Updates'
Mafia Wars introduced a new feature called Live Updates, which is a Flash version of the current 'Player updates,' the feed of your friend's activities that appear at the bottom of the game's front page. I'm guessing that Zynga is quietly releasing this to test it out, and that it will be part of the new Mafia Wars 2.0 that has been spotted in the wild.
Gallery: The New Mafia Wars
Have you seen Mafia Wars 2.0 yet? What do you think?
Gallery: The New Mafia Wars
Have you seen Mafia Wars 2.0 yet? What do you think?
FarmVille Swiss Limited Edition Decorations: Milk Jug Cart, Swiss Lake, Matterhorn, & Swiss Alphorn
farmville matterhorn
Some more limited edition Swiss Alps themed decorations hit the FarmVille Market.
The Milk Jug Cart, Swiss Lake, Matterhorn and Swiss Alphorn decorations will be available during the next 13 days.
Limited Edition Swiss Alps Decorations (Released July 14th 2010)
The Milk Jug Cart
Swiss Lake
Matterhorn
Swiss Alporn
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Some more limited edition Swiss Alps themed decorations hit the FarmVille Market.
The Milk Jug Cart, Swiss Lake, Matterhorn and Swiss Alphorn decorations will be available during the next 13 days.
Limited Edition Swiss Alps Decorations (Released July 14th 2010)
The Milk Jug Cart
Swiss Lake
Matterhorn
Swiss Alporn
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
FarmVille Limited Edition Swiss Rappi & Sugar Beets Crops
farmville sugar beets
Two new limited edition Swiss themed crops hit the FarmVille Market!
The Swiss Rapp and Sugar Beet seeds will be available during the next 15 days only.
There is no Crop Mastery available since these are limited edition crops.
farmville sugar beets farmville rappi
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Will you grow Swiss Rappi or Sugar Beets on your farm?
Two new limited edition Swiss themed crops hit the FarmVille Market!
The Swiss Rapp and Sugar Beet seeds will be available during the next 15 days only.
There is no Crop Mastery available since these are limited edition crops.
farmville sugar beets farmville rappi
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Will you grow Swiss Rappi or Sugar Beets on your farm?
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Is Zynga about to rock Facebook with a new music game?
FarmVille maker Zynga purchased the Boston-based Conduit Labs, the creators of Super Dance and Music Pets on Facebook, on August 17. Neither of these games reached critical mass on Facebook (and in fact, Music Pets and Super Dance are now both officially closed), but this does seems like a possible indication that the Big Z is preparing to kick off the music game revolution on Facebook.
Think about it -- some of the the most popular social games outside of Facebook are music games. For years, many iterations of Rock Band and Guitar Hero have brought groups of people together to jam out on plastic instruments to hits from the past several decades. The games have brought in billions of dollars, and have helped make games more accessible to the masses. We've seen this music phenomenon translate fairly well onto iPhone with Tap Tap Revenge, Rock Band for iPhone and several other games, but we haven't seen a music game rock the Facebook gaming world.
That's starting to change, though. Booyah's Nightclub City, a nightclub simulation game that features dance music from real-life indie artists, broke into the top 25 Facebook games this past month. Heatwave's Platinum Life Web Edition, a hip-hop superstar sim game with licensed music and cartoon likenesses of real-life artists like Ludacris, has also been growing at a steady pace. The Las Vegas based Instant Action just launched a beta of its new music game Instant Jam -- a Guitar Hero clone that lets you play along to music in your personal digital library.
No one is better situated than Zynga to create a music game using the talent at Conduit Labs (now renamed Zynga Boston), launch it and then crank it up to 11 using the all-powerful game cross-promotion bar that sits atop FarmVille, Mafia Wars and all of Zynga's other wildly popular games, which means millions of guaranteed eyeballs for any new game.
Of course, this is all wild speculation, but just in case Zynga is on the hunt for a few ideas, these are mine: Mafia Wars: The Musical and The FarmVille Follies. What those would actually be like, I don't know -- I'll just leave it to the pros at Zynga to fill in the blanks.
Think about it -- some of the the most popular social games outside of Facebook are music games. For years, many iterations of Rock Band and Guitar Hero have brought groups of people together to jam out on plastic instruments to hits from the past several decades. The games have brought in billions of dollars, and have helped make games more accessible to the masses. We've seen this music phenomenon translate fairly well onto iPhone with Tap Tap Revenge, Rock Band for iPhone and several other games, but we haven't seen a music game rock the Facebook gaming world.
That's starting to change, though. Booyah's Nightclub City, a nightclub simulation game that features dance music from real-life indie artists, broke into the top 25 Facebook games this past month. Heatwave's Platinum Life Web Edition, a hip-hop superstar sim game with licensed music and cartoon likenesses of real-life artists like Ludacris, has also been growing at a steady pace. The Las Vegas based Instant Action just launched a beta of its new music game Instant Jam -- a Guitar Hero clone that lets you play along to music in your personal digital library.
No one is better situated than Zynga to create a music game using the talent at Conduit Labs (now renamed Zynga Boston), launch it and then crank it up to 11 using the all-powerful game cross-promotion bar that sits atop FarmVille, Mafia Wars and all of Zynga's other wildly popular games, which means millions of guaranteed eyeballs for any new game.
Of course, this is all wild speculation, but just in case Zynga is on the hunt for a few ideas, these are mine: Mafia Wars: The Musical and The FarmVille Follies. What those would actually be like, I don't know -- I'll just leave it to the pros at Zynga to fill in the blanks.
Music Pets, Super Dance take a final bow, both "shutting down soon"
The same day Zynga announced its acquisition of Music Pets and Super Dance creator Conduit Labs, a notice appeared on both of the Facebook music games, saying that they "will be shutting down soon." There's a longer explanation of the close of these games, which essentially boils down to this one quote: "we've been unable to make Music Pets/Super Dance commercially viable."
Read the entire note below:
music pets closure
The biggest question is what happens to players who have invested real-life cash into these games? I like that there is a concession for players who bought items with Facebook Credits over the past month, but this doesn't address the larger problem that arises when social games get the axe -- how do you handle loyal customers (aka 'whales') who have spent hundreds of dollars in your game? I think companies should take a Las Vegas approach, where casinos comp hotel rooms and other rewards for high rollers. Maybe social game whales can be comped a pile of free virtual cash in a new game or get some kind of real-world reward.
super dance
There isn't an easy answer, but while you ponder the possibilities, let's say so-long to Super Dance and Music Pets and look forward to what the newly minted Zynga Boston is jamming on behind the scenes.
Read the entire note below:
music pets closure
The biggest question is what happens to players who have invested real-life cash into these games? I like that there is a concession for players who bought items with Facebook Credits over the past month, but this doesn't address the larger problem that arises when social games get the axe -- how do you handle loyal customers (aka 'whales') who have spent hundreds of dollars in your game? I think companies should take a Las Vegas approach, where casinos comp hotel rooms and other rewards for high rollers. Maybe social game whales can be comped a pile of free virtual cash in a new game or get some kind of real-world reward.
super dance
There isn't an easy answer, but while you ponder the possibilities, let's say so-long to Super Dance and Music Pets and look forward to what the newly minted Zynga Boston is jamming on behind the scenes.
CityVille: Will this be the next 'Ville' in the Zynga gaming dynasty?
Back in March, Zynga surveyed players, asking how much time they spent playing city-building games like Social City, and that, of course, led us to believe that Zynga was doing its due diligence before launching its own city-building game. And, it looks like something called CityVille might soon be the new kid on the block, if this image taken from the official Zynga forums means anything.
cityville
Essentially, you're seeing something called CityVille in the Zynga community forums, but, if you try to enter this area, you will be denied access. What does this mean? Well, we don't know for sure, but we have a hunch we'll be soon be adding CityVille to our social gaming diet.
Thanks, Nikolas for the tip!
Do you think Zynga's getting ready to launch a city-building game on Facebook? Will it be a FarmVille killer?
cityville
Essentially, you're seeing something called CityVille in the Zynga community forums, but, if you try to enter this area, you will be denied access. What does this mean? Well, we don't know for sure, but we have a hunch we'll be soon be adding CityVille to our social gaming diet.
Thanks, Nikolas for the tip!
Do you think Zynga's getting ready to launch a city-building game on Facebook? Will it be a FarmVille killer?
FarmVille new items: Summertime and the livin is easy
Summer in FarmVille
Tonight, a small FarmVille update included a set of new summertime themed items! In this set is one animal, two houses, and five decoration pieces. It's the hot August months, so it's the perfect time too cool down with some summery fun in FarmVille. Here is what you can expect to find in the FarmVille Market:
Flamingo - 16 Farm Cash
Bouncy Castle - 32 Farm Cash
Dinosaur Slide - 30 Farm Cash
Fireflies - 4 Farm Cash
Octopus Pool - 80,000 coins
Summer Campsite - 50,000 coins
Backyard Fort - 30 Farm Cash
Ice Cream Shop - 220,000
These items are only available for 9 days, and we suspect this won't be the entire summer theme release. Zynga loves to release their themes slowly to maximize the fun (and the spending, we presume).
Which summery FarmVille items are going to buy?
Tonight, a small FarmVille update included a set of new summertime themed items! In this set is one animal, two houses, and five decoration pieces. It's the hot August months, so it's the perfect time too cool down with some summery fun in FarmVille. Here is what you can expect to find in the FarmVille Market:
Flamingo - 16 Farm Cash
Bouncy Castle - 32 Farm Cash
Dinosaur Slide - 30 Farm Cash
Fireflies - 4 Farm Cash
Octopus Pool - 80,000 coins
Summer Campsite - 50,000 coins
Backyard Fort - 30 Farm Cash
Ice Cream Shop - 220,000
These items are only available for 9 days, and we suspect this won't be the entire summer theme release. Zynga loves to release their themes slowly to maximize the fun (and the spending, we presume).
Which summery FarmVille items are going to buy?
Treasure Isle soon to allow coin trading for cash
A surprising update came tonight on the Treasure Isle fan page, telling us that soon, players will be able to trade their coins in for Island Cash. This is a huge announcement, and one that players will likely be very excited about. Typically, you can only buy a game's "hard currency" through paying real money (or taking part in 'offers'). Sometimes, you can also buy additional "soft currency" (usually coins) with real life money as well. But as far as we know, there aren't any social games out there yet that allow you to buy hard currency with soft currency.
This provides a huge benefit for players who have a lot of neighbors and are diligent about helping them out. In addition, people who have a lot of Facebook friends and can claim wall bonuses will have a serious advantage here. This update will make gaining Island Cash much easier for people who have been hoarding all of their coins.
So far, we don't know any details. We're not sure of the pricing, or if there will be a limitation per day. We're excited to hear more, and we'll be sure to update you all when this new feature goes live.
This provides a huge benefit for players who have a lot of neighbors and are diligent about helping them out. In addition, people who have a lot of Facebook friends and can claim wall bonuses will have a serious advantage here. This update will make gaining Island Cash much easier for people who have been hoarding all of their coins.
So far, we don't know any details. We're not sure of the pricing, or if there will be a limitation per day. We're excited to hear more, and we'll be sure to update you all when this new feature goes live.
Monday, February 6, 2012
FarmVille German Themed Decorations: Majestic Fountain, Beech Tree, Market Table Set, & Porcelain Vase
Lots of new Limited Edition Germany themed items including a Majestic Fountain, Beech Tree, Market Table Set, and Porcelain Vase debuted tonight in FarmVille.
You can purchase all of these LE decorations in the FarmVille Market during the next 13 days only.
FarmVille LE Germany Decorations (Released: September 16, 2010):
* Majestic Fountain – 22 FV$
* Beech Tree – 4 FV$
* Market Table Set – 22,000 Coins
* Porcelain Vase – 7,000 Coins
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
FarmVille German Themed Buildings: German Home & Tailor Shop
Continuing with the Limited Edition Germany theme, FarmVille released two new buildings tonight that includes the German Home (Previously Unreleased item) and the Tailor Shop.
You can purchase both of these buildings in the FarmVille Market during the next 13 days.
FarmVille LE Germany Buildings (Released September 16, 2010):
* German Home – 36 FV$
* Tailor Shop – 34 FV$
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
FarmVille Reitpony trots into the Market for 13 days only
A new pony has trotted into the FarmVille Market -- a limited edition horse called the Reitpony. If this pony looks familiar, you're not seeing things -- this horse has been featured on a new German-themed loading screen this week and was also revealed earlier this week as an unreleased item, listed as the Riding Pony.
The Reitpony will be available for purchase for the next 13 days only (and, yes, there is also a Reitpony foal).
Reitpony
Released: Sept 16, 2010
Cost: 24 Farm Cash
Sell for 84 coins
The Reitpony will be available for purchase for the next 13 days only (and, yes, there is also a Reitpony foal).
Reitpony
Released: Sept 16, 2010
Cost: 24 Farm Cash
Sell for 84 coins
FarmVille: Re-gifting now applies to building materials and more
Earlier this week, we noticed that we were able to re-gift unwanted FarmVille Mystery Gifts, now it looks like that re-gifting feature has been added to building supplies as well. To get rid of these items, click the purple Re-Gift button, select how many you want to give away, then post them to you Facebook Wall.
farmville regifting
And I was just about to ask everyone what they planned to do with their leftover building materials.
farmville regifting
And I was just about to ask everyone what they planned to do with their leftover building materials.
Mafia Wars Dublin Challenge Mission kicks off this weekend
Last week, we became the kingpens of Bollywood in Mumbai; this week, it's time to pack our bags and head to Dublin. In the new Mafia Wars Dublin Challenge Mission -- your goal is to, put simply, "Destroy your rivals and become the real power broker in Dublin."
From what I can tell so far, Dublin seems like it will work just like the previous Challenge Missions. There are three Chapters will be unlocked over the course of three weeks. Every time you finish a chapter, you will earn special Dublin Loot, in this case:
mafia wars dublin rewards
Chapter 1 Reward -- Bodyguard: 52 A, 63 D
Chapter 2 Reward -- Weapon: 84 A, 59 D
Chapter 3 Reward -- Animal (a Horse 67 A, 111 D)
Instead of London Passports or Film Reels, you'll have to collect Pints of Stout to get your jobs done. You will be able to collect 5 stout every 24 hours from the Mission screen or collect is as loot that will drop randomly from fights, jobs, robbing and other nefarious activities. You can also purchase them from the Marketplace.
mafia wars my crew
Another way to get extra Stout is by adding new members to your Crew. Every new person you sign up with earn you an additional 5 pints a pop.
This event kicks off this weekend, so I highly recommend you start stocking up on Pints of Stout and recruiting new Mafia members as soon as possible. See you in Dublin.
From what I can tell so far, Dublin seems like it will work just like the previous Challenge Missions. There are three Chapters will be unlocked over the course of three weeks. Every time you finish a chapter, you will earn special Dublin Loot, in this case:
mafia wars dublin rewards
Chapter 1 Reward -- Bodyguard: 52 A, 63 D
Chapter 2 Reward -- Weapon: 84 A, 59 D
Chapter 3 Reward -- Animal (a Horse 67 A, 111 D)
Instead of London Passports or Film Reels, you'll have to collect Pints of Stout to get your jobs done. You will be able to collect 5 stout every 24 hours from the Mission screen or collect is as loot that will drop randomly from fights, jobs, robbing and other nefarious activities. You can also purchase them from the Marketplace.
mafia wars my crew
Another way to get extra Stout is by adding new members to your Crew. Every new person you sign up with earn you an additional 5 pints a pop.
This event kicks off this weekend, so I highly recommend you start stocking up on Pints of Stout and recruiting new Mafia members as soon as possible. See you in Dublin.
Friday, February 3, 2012
More FarmVille Halloween items sneak into the game
FarmVille Halloween
FarmVille has been updated tonight, and the shop is now featuring a few more Halloween items to add to the existing items with a spooky theme. What a surprise for your Thursday night! Of course, we already have a list of the new items for you so you can decide if you want to buy these Halloween items before they leave the game when the season is over. Without further ado, here are the new Halloween items!
Caramel Apple Tree - 5 Farm Cash
Count Duckula - 14 Farm Cash
Candy Corn Home - 38 Farm Cash
Pumpkin Tower - 18 Farm Cash
Giant Spider Web - 8 Farm Cash
Spooky Bush - 4 Farm Cash
Witch Scarecrow - 80,000 coins
Cat-O'-Lantern - 40,000 coins
Plant Monster - 30,000 coins
Right now, many players are reporting that the game is getting stuck at 98% and will not allow them into the game. We do not have screenshots of the new items for this reason. A few players have reported that they were able to get in to the game just fine, but the forums are filled with posts from angry FarmVille players who want their farm.
FarmVille has been updated tonight, and the shop is now featuring a few more Halloween items to add to the existing items with a spooky theme. What a surprise for your Thursday night! Of course, we already have a list of the new items for you so you can decide if you want to buy these Halloween items before they leave the game when the season is over. Without further ado, here are the new Halloween items!
Caramel Apple Tree - 5 Farm Cash
Count Duckula - 14 Farm Cash
Candy Corn Home - 38 Farm Cash
Pumpkin Tower - 18 Farm Cash
Giant Spider Web - 8 Farm Cash
Spooky Bush - 4 Farm Cash
Witch Scarecrow - 80,000 coins
Cat-O'-Lantern - 40,000 coins
Plant Monster - 30,000 coins
Right now, many players are reporting that the game is getting stuck at 98% and will not allow them into the game. We do not have screenshots of the new items for this reason. A few players have reported that they were able to get in to the game just fine, but the forums are filled with posts from angry FarmVille players who want their farm.
FarmVille farmers go from frumpy to fab with new clothing options
FarmVille has started to roll out a revamped customization system for your farmer, which will make it a billion times easier to change your farmer's hair and facial features on a win. But the coup de grace of the new customization system is the 'Clothing' tab, which will allow you to trade in your farmer's dusty overalls for something a little more fashion forward.
Only a few farmers have access to the new clothing options right now, but based on the image above, it looks like you'll be able to buy new types of clothes (like button-down shirts or a hoodie) for either Farm Cash or coins.
This new fashion feature will presumably roll out to everyone else pretty quickly, because this is clearly how you'll be able to dress up your avatar in these FarmVille Halloween costumes that we've been eyeballing for weeks.
Only a few farmers have access to the new clothing options right now, but based on the image above, it looks like you'll be able to buy new types of clothes (like button-down shirts or a hoodie) for either Farm Cash or coins.
This new fashion feature will presumably roll out to everyone else pretty quickly, because this is clearly how you'll be able to dress up your avatar in these FarmVille Halloween costumes that we've been eyeballing for weeks.
FarmVille brings back in-game gifting (hopefully for good this time)
The long awaited in-game FarmVille gifting center has finally gone live! The center can be accessed by simply clicking on FarmVille Requests in the upper right hand corner.
farmville in-game requests
The in-game gifting center is much quicker than accepting and sending gifts through the Facebook Game area. For example when your neighbors request an item, sending it is now only one click. After accepting a gift you do have the option to return it in-game through the regular Facebook pop-up window.
farmville gift requests
You can also access your other Zynga game requests with a simple click.
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
farmville in-game requests
The in-game gifting center is much quicker than accepting and sending gifts through the Facebook Game area. For example when your neighbors request an item, sending it is now only one click. After accepting a gift you do have the option to return it in-game through the regular Facebook pop-up window.
farmville gift requests
You can also access your other Zynga game requests with a simple click.
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Mafia Wars Las Vegas items now giftable, but not very useful
You know, Zynga could have really wowed us with the new set of giftable items the team alluded to yesterday in Mafia Wars, changing the way Trading was done to increase its usefulness. Unfortunately, a list of weapons, armor, vehicles and animals were made available for Trading that will almost certainly become obsolete once Italy hits by the end of this month. We expected Las Vegas job unlock and Collection items and to help the stragglers finish this content before everyone makes the big trip, but nay. (Though, we were right on target with Mystery Animals.)
Well, check behind the cut nonetheless to see what soon-to-be aged junk you can now gift along with official rules from Zynga and our explanation of how all this works.
Trading
Zynga needs to make up its mind on what's Gifting and what is Trading in Mafia Wars. To clear up the company's usual cryptic fashion and lack of desire to explain anything, these are items that are gifted to others from your own loot. Just click the "Gifting" button on the navigation bar, then click the "Trading" tab. From there, you can now gift items from Las Vegas loot and more, in addition to what was already giftable, directly from your loot to your mafia. Gifting like this thankfully doesn't affect your Free Gifting totals.
If only being able to gift dated items wasn't enough, there are three stipulations to this new feature. First off, if an item was bought for Reward Points, it cannot be traded. Second, unique items like boss fight and challenge mission rewards cannot be traded. Lastly, energy boosts of any kind cannot be gifted. Now that the official rabble is through, here's a full list of what can be gifted.
Vegas Weapons:
Carver
24k Chainsaw
Biohazard
El Escorpión
Pump Shotgun
Gilded RPG
Belt Fed Shotgun
Two Pair
Precision SMG
Range Finder Rifle
Arcturion Assault Rifle
Pitbull Sentry Gun
Ripper Assault Rifle
Vegas Armor:
Football Jersey
Rhinestone Cowboy
Reinforced Boots
Reinforced Tuxedo
Motorcycle Helmet
Femme Fatale
Ventilated Blast Cap
Biker Leathers
Police Riot Helmet
Reinhardt & Otto
Ares Power Armor
Hopped-Up Thug
Cooling Vest
Vegas Vehicles:
Moving Truck
All Terrain
Road Tractor
Sand Storm
Highrise Sport
Classic Convertible
High Society
Hard Four
Dune Buggy
Mojave Mike
Performance Sports Car
Goldsmobile
X-22 Peregrine
Foo Fighter
Ballista Missile Launcher
Amphiquad
Vegas Animals:
Bison
Bark Scorpion
Bighorn Ram
Gila Monster
Diamondback
Pronghorn Antelope
Bighorn
Bangkok Animals:
Attack Cobra
Riding Elephant
Komodo Dragon
Forest Scorpion
Chain Viper
Mystery Animals:
Arabian Leopard
Badger
Buffalo
Dingo
Cassowary
Piranha
Electric Eel
Kangaroo
King Cheetah
It's unfortunate that more useful items weren't made available for trade like Collection and job unlock items, but these might be useful to players trying to get through the tougher boss fights and survive high-level fights in Las Vegas. But don't worry, it'll all be useless when we make the move to Italy. Hey, at least Zynga can always update it.
Well, check behind the cut nonetheless to see what soon-to-be aged junk you can now gift along with official rules from Zynga and our explanation of how all this works.
Trading
Zynga needs to make up its mind on what's Gifting and what is Trading in Mafia Wars. To clear up the company's usual cryptic fashion and lack of desire to explain anything, these are items that are gifted to others from your own loot. Just click the "Gifting" button on the navigation bar, then click the "Trading" tab. From there, you can now gift items from Las Vegas loot and more, in addition to what was already giftable, directly from your loot to your mafia. Gifting like this thankfully doesn't affect your Free Gifting totals.
If only being able to gift dated items wasn't enough, there are three stipulations to this new feature. First off, if an item was bought for Reward Points, it cannot be traded. Second, unique items like boss fight and challenge mission rewards cannot be traded. Lastly, energy boosts of any kind cannot be gifted. Now that the official rabble is through, here's a full list of what can be gifted.
Vegas Weapons:
Carver
24k Chainsaw
Biohazard
El Escorpión
Pump Shotgun
Gilded RPG
Belt Fed Shotgun
Two Pair
Precision SMG
Range Finder Rifle
Arcturion Assault Rifle
Pitbull Sentry Gun
Ripper Assault Rifle
Vegas Armor:
Football Jersey
Rhinestone Cowboy
Reinforced Boots
Reinforced Tuxedo
Motorcycle Helmet
Femme Fatale
Ventilated Blast Cap
Biker Leathers
Police Riot Helmet
Reinhardt & Otto
Ares Power Armor
Hopped-Up Thug
Cooling Vest
Vegas Vehicles:
Moving Truck
All Terrain
Road Tractor
Sand Storm
Highrise Sport
Classic Convertible
High Society
Hard Four
Dune Buggy
Mojave Mike
Performance Sports Car
Goldsmobile
X-22 Peregrine
Foo Fighter
Ballista Missile Launcher
Amphiquad
Vegas Animals:
Bison
Bark Scorpion
Bighorn Ram
Gila Monster
Diamondback
Pronghorn Antelope
Bighorn
Bangkok Animals:
Attack Cobra
Riding Elephant
Komodo Dragon
Forest Scorpion
Chain Viper
Mystery Animals:
Arabian Leopard
Badger
Buffalo
Dingo
Cassowary
Piranha
Electric Eel
Kangaroo
King Cheetah
It's unfortunate that more useful items weren't made available for trade like Collection and job unlock items, but these might be useful to players trying to get through the tougher boss fights and survive high-level fights in Las Vegas. But don't worry, it'll all be useless when we make the move to Italy. Hey, at least Zynga can always update it.
Mafia Wars Natural Disaster Crates have catastrophic loot inside
Natural Distaster Crates
The Zynga team have added yet another set of Crates to Mafia Wars with Natural Disaster Crates. For 12 Reward Points each or 35 Reward Points for three (around $3 and $7, respectively), you'll have a chance at one of eight disaster-themed weapons, vehicle and armor. Like the usual loot crates, each Natural Disaster Crate will have a 60 percent chance of containing a common item, a 30 percent chance for uncommon items and just a 10 percent chance of holding a rare item.
Check behind the break for a full list of the items you can win by picking up a few of these new crates. Here's a full preview of what you have to look forward to finding inside the Natural Disaster Crates:
Landslide Avalanche Lightning Strike
Common Items (60 percent chance)
Tornado Eruption Famine
Uncommon Items (30 percent chance)
Tsunami Earthquake
Rare Items (10 percent chance)
These new crates have cool looking items, but whether they're worth buying when more powerful items can be found in Las Vegas jobs alone should be taken under serious consideration. But hey, if you're a collector, there's no stopping you anyway.
The Zynga team have added yet another set of Crates to Mafia Wars with Natural Disaster Crates. For 12 Reward Points each or 35 Reward Points for three (around $3 and $7, respectively), you'll have a chance at one of eight disaster-themed weapons, vehicle and armor. Like the usual loot crates, each Natural Disaster Crate will have a 60 percent chance of containing a common item, a 30 percent chance for uncommon items and just a 10 percent chance of holding a rare item.
Check behind the break for a full list of the items you can win by picking up a few of these new crates. Here's a full preview of what you have to look forward to finding inside the Natural Disaster Crates:
Landslide Avalanche Lightning Strike
Common Items (60 percent chance)
Tornado Eruption Famine
Uncommon Items (30 percent chance)
Tsunami Earthquake
Rare Items (10 percent chance)
These new crates have cool looking items, but whether they're worth buying when more powerful items can be found in Las Vegas jobs alone should be taken under serious consideration. But hey, if you're a collector, there's no stopping you anyway.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Zuma Blitz: First round preview beta now open!
For some time now, we've known that PopCap was going to be bringing their hit, marble-breaking game Zuma to Facebook in a version similar to the tremendously popular Bejeweled Blitz. Now, the time has come for some very lucky players to get in on the first preview beta round of the game.
The preview beta can be found by heading over to the game's official page on Facebook, adding the application to your account, and then clicking on the "Play" button to play at least one, one-minute round of the game. This will apparently lock you into the game throughout this first preview beta, but the catch is that only the first 15,000 people who attempt to enter will be allowed.
For more details over the gameplay in Zuma Blitz, meet us behind the break.
We were one of the lucky ones to land a spot in the beta, and can say that the game functions much as you would expect. You'll have one minute to clear as many marbles as possible, by creating a match of at least three like-colored marbles.
Two chains are on screen at once - one coming from the top of the screen, and the other from the bottom. Certain marbles will be multipliers, meaning that if you make a match with said marble, your score will increase 2x, 3x, and so on, just like in Bejeweled Blitz. Furthermore, if you create a gap in the chain and then earn Gap Bonuses (create a match by shooting a marble through the gap in the chain), you'll earn even more points, on top of those earned for simply making matches one right after the other, creating a normal "Chain."
Unlike Bejeweled Blitz, the game has a leveling system allowing you to level up as you play and earn points. This will unlock power-ups, like those that give you extra time to shoot marbles, as but one example. You'll be able to compare your score with those of your friends on a leaderboard as well.
We'll be sure to bring you more coverage of this exciting new Facebook game as it becomes available, but for now, make sure to take a chance at joining the beta!
The preview beta can be found by heading over to the game's official page on Facebook, adding the application to your account, and then clicking on the "Play" button to play at least one, one-minute round of the game. This will apparently lock you into the game throughout this first preview beta, but the catch is that only the first 15,000 people who attempt to enter will be allowed.
For more details over the gameplay in Zuma Blitz, meet us behind the break.
We were one of the lucky ones to land a spot in the beta, and can say that the game functions much as you would expect. You'll have one minute to clear as many marbles as possible, by creating a match of at least three like-colored marbles.
Two chains are on screen at once - one coming from the top of the screen, and the other from the bottom. Certain marbles will be multipliers, meaning that if you make a match with said marble, your score will increase 2x, 3x, and so on, just like in Bejeweled Blitz. Furthermore, if you create a gap in the chain and then earn Gap Bonuses (create a match by shooting a marble through the gap in the chain), you'll earn even more points, on top of those earned for simply making matches one right after the other, creating a normal "Chain."
Unlike Bejeweled Blitz, the game has a leveling system allowing you to level up as you play and earn points. This will unlock power-ups, like those that give you extra time to shoot marbles, as but one example. You'll be able to compare your score with those of your friends on a leaderboard as well.
We'll be sure to bring you more coverage of this exciting new Facebook game as it becomes available, but for now, make sure to take a chance at joining the beta!
Social City: Earn 90 City Bucks in magazine trial promotion
Long time players of Playdom's Social City will know that it's pretty difficult to earn City Bucks in a completely "free" fashion, that is unless you own an iPhone or Android and can take advantage of the app-exclusive offers.
For internet-only players, the opportunities for loads of free City Bucks are hit or miss, but a newest offer might actually be something worth looking into. For a limited time, users can sign up for two free, two-month trial subscriptions to two magazines (from a list containing: People, Entertainment Weekly, Sports Illustrated, or Time magazines). When doing so, you'll earn a whopping 90 City Bucks as a reward. Note: the offer can be activated via the Newspaper's Financial News page.
Now, there is a catch with this, but luckily, it's nothing too sinister. When signing up for this offer, you will automatically be entered into the magazines' auto-subscription renewal services, meaning that after your two month trial of each is up, your subscription will be renewed automatically, and you will be charged the appropriate regular subscription price. However, it stands to reason that if you closed your free trial accounts before the two months was over (or, say, immediately after receiving your City Bucks), that you could avoid spending any real money on the deal.
For internet-only players, the opportunities for loads of free City Bucks are hit or miss, but a newest offer might actually be something worth looking into. For a limited time, users can sign up for two free, two-month trial subscriptions to two magazines (from a list containing: People, Entertainment Weekly, Sports Illustrated, or Time magazines). When doing so, you'll earn a whopping 90 City Bucks as a reward. Note: the offer can be activated via the Newspaper's Financial News page.
Now, there is a catch with this, but luckily, it's nothing too sinister. When signing up for this offer, you will automatically be entered into the magazines' auto-subscription renewal services, meaning that after your two month trial of each is up, your subscription will be renewed automatically, and you will be charged the appropriate regular subscription price. However, it stands to reason that if you closed your free trial accounts before the two months was over (or, say, immediately after receiving your City Bucks), that you could avoid spending any real money on the deal.
Pet Society Arabian Nights theme will make you feel like Aladdin
Cue Aladdin soundtrack: Arabian nights, like Arabian days, more often than not, are hotter than hot, in a lot of good ways.
Arabian Niiiiiiii---- Erm, excuse me. I got a bit caught up in this week's newest Pet Society theme. If you haven't guessed from my trip back through great Disney animation, Playfish is celebrating Arabian Nights this week with a slew of new items available to decorate both your pet's home and your pet.
The theme contains outdoor items like the giant Oasis Palm Tree, Palace Fountain, and even a buildable Treasure Cave. This item can be purchased outright for 30 Playfish Cash, or you can build it with the help of 10 friends. Moving indoors, you'll find more items perfect for both the Palace and the Market - dining tables, market stalls, ceramic pots, and even a large Palace Throne, that will set you back 5,000 coins (but is oh so pretty and gold).
Don't want to spend 5,000 coins on a throne? Then why not spend your money on some nice clothing items for your pet, including the Arabian Princess outfit (850 coins total - three pieces), and the Arabian Prince outfit (900 coins total - also three pieces) that looks almost identical to that of Aladdin in the movie of the same name. For those with girl pets, you can even splurge on the Arabian Princess's Wig (read: Jasmine's wig) for 1,100 coins. If you love Disney and Pet Society, this is a great way to go about showing it.
Finally, even Abu has been given a nod in this week's theme, as a new Monkey Petling is available to purchase for 22 Playfish Cash.
Arabian Niiiiiiii---- Erm, excuse me. I got a bit caught up in this week's newest Pet Society theme. If you haven't guessed from my trip back through great Disney animation, Playfish is celebrating Arabian Nights this week with a slew of new items available to decorate both your pet's home and your pet.
The theme contains outdoor items like the giant Oasis Palm Tree, Palace Fountain, and even a buildable Treasure Cave. This item can be purchased outright for 30 Playfish Cash, or you can build it with the help of 10 friends. Moving indoors, you'll find more items perfect for both the Palace and the Market - dining tables, market stalls, ceramic pots, and even a large Palace Throne, that will set you back 5,000 coins (but is oh so pretty and gold).
Don't want to spend 5,000 coins on a throne? Then why not spend your money on some nice clothing items for your pet, including the Arabian Princess outfit (850 coins total - three pieces), and the Arabian Prince outfit (900 coins total - also three pieces) that looks almost identical to that of Aladdin in the movie of the same name. For those with girl pets, you can even splurge on the Arabian Princess's Wig (read: Jasmine's wig) for 1,100 coins. If you love Disney and Pet Society, this is a great way to go about showing it.
Finally, even Abu has been given a nod in this week's theme, as a new Monkey Petling is available to purchase for 22 Playfish Cash.
FarmVille Sneak Peek: Thanksgiving food items, plus Fruit Cake
It looks like this year's Thanksgiving celebration in FarmVille will be absolutely huge, as we've come across five more images pertaining the holiday, the holiday feast in particular. There's also an image of Fruit Cake, but we're assuming that will wait until closer to Christmas.
At any rate, above you'll see images (from left to right) or the unreleased Leaf Candle (perfect for decorating the dinner table), Stuffing, Casserole dish, Spiced Cider, an "All Food" picture, and the Fruit Cake itself.
While there is no guarantee that these items will actually make it into FarmVille, it is nice to see that Zynga is at least thinking about making this year's theme quite an expansive one.
At any rate, above you'll see images (from left to right) or the unreleased Leaf Candle (perfect for decorating the dinner table), Stuffing, Casserole dish, Spiced Cider, an "All Food" picture, and the Fruit Cake itself.
While there is no guarantee that these items will actually make it into FarmVille, it is nice to see that Zynga is at least thinking about making this year's theme quite an expansive one.
FarmVille Sneak Peek: Orange, White, Red, Pink, & Yellow Mums
We've come across even more unreleased FarmVille goodies tonight, as five colors of Mums will apparently be coming to the game in the future. As Mums are traditionally known as a "Fall flower," it only makes sense that we'd see these flowers being released sometime soon.
The Mums seem to be decorative, as there is no information about seeds, growth time and the like. You'll apparently be able to choose from Orange, White, Red, Pink, and Yellow varieties, as seen above.
As usual, there is no actual guarantee that these items will ever see the light of day in FarmVille, so keep that in mind.
The Mums seem to be decorative, as there is no information about seeds, growth time and the like. You'll apparently be able to choose from Orange, White, Red, Pink, and Yellow varieties, as seen above.
As usual, there is no actual guarantee that these items will ever see the light of day in FarmVille, so keep that in mind.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
New FarmVille Thanksgiving Decorations: Autumn Fall, Pocahontas Gnome, & Orange Pumpkin
Thanksgiving may have come and gone, but if you're not still trying to wake up from your turkey coma, why not take a few minutes to start stocking up on Thanksgiving decorations for next year in FarmVille? The developer has released three new decorative items into this expansive Thanksgiving theme, with these items coming in the form of an Autumn Fall, a Pocahontas Gnome, and an Orange Pumpkin.
The Autumn Fall is actually a lovely natural waterfall comprised of water and fallen leaves that has a fairly high price tag of 30 Farm Cash. Meanwhile, the Pocahontas Gnome costs much less, at 12 Farm Cash. Finally, the Orange Pumpkin (not to be confused with the White or Black Pumpkins that are still available in the store) costs just 1,500 coins - quite the bargain price for a limited edition decoration.
While it may seem odd to buy Thanksgiving items in FarmVille when most users' minds have now moved fully into the Christmas and Winter columns, you've got 14 days to hold onto Thanksgiving by purchasing these new items before they expire.
The Autumn Fall is actually a lovely natural waterfall comprised of water and fallen leaves that has a fairly high price tag of 30 Farm Cash. Meanwhile, the Pocahontas Gnome costs much less, at 12 Farm Cash. Finally, the Orange Pumpkin (not to be confused with the White or Black Pumpkins that are still available in the store) costs just 1,500 coins - quite the bargain price for a limited edition decoration.
While it may seem odd to buy Thanksgiving items in FarmVille when most users' minds have now moved fully into the Christmas and Winter columns, you've got 14 days to hold onto Thanksgiving by purchasing these new items before they expire.
FarmVille Grey Goose now available to purchase in the market
In an interesting move, Zynga has released the Grey Goose formerly given out as a bonus for purchasing FarmVille Farm Cash to the market as a "regular" premium item.
Earlier this week, if you had taken the opportunity to purchase any Farm Cash package, this Grey Goose would've been give to you for free, but as that was a limited time opportunity (that has since expired), if you want to get your hands on this interesting bird, you'll have to pay Farm Cash, to the total of 16 Farm Cash, to be exact.
It's also interesting to see the Grey Goose listed as a limited edition item - part of the new Winter Holiday theme of items. While the Goose doesn't scream either Winter or Holidays for that matter, we'll give Zynga the benefit of the doubt on this one.
You've got 14 days to add this Grey Goose to your animal collection in the game, so make sure to take advantage of its release while you can.
Earlier this week, if you had taken the opportunity to purchase any Farm Cash package, this Grey Goose would've been give to you for free, but as that was a limited time opportunity (that has since expired), if you want to get your hands on this interesting bird, you'll have to pay Farm Cash, to the total of 16 Farm Cash, to be exact.
It's also interesting to see the Grey Goose listed as a limited edition item - part of the new Winter Holiday theme of items. While the Goose doesn't scream either Winter or Holidays for that matter, we'll give Zynga the benefit of the doubt on this one.
You've got 14 days to add this Grey Goose to your animal collection in the game, so make sure to take advantage of its release while you can.
FarmVille Winter Holiday Decorations: Lighted Train, Candy Gate, Arch & Fence
What better way to begin the winter holiday celebration than to purchase some new decorative items in FarmVille? There are four new decorations, to be exact, with most of these items allowing you to create a completely separated, yet themed area on your farm this winter.
First, though, there is the Lighted Train, a individual item that costs 22 Farm Cash. If you have the Lighted Gift Box from last year's celebration, you'll recognize the design of the train (which comes with the engine, one car and a caboose connected), as it is bright blue, with animated flashing lights that make it appear as though the train is moving, just as the Lighted Gift Box flashes lights on its ribbon.
The other items are those I spoke of earlier - those items that will help you truly set your other Winter Holiday items apart, in the form of fences and other dividers. It should be noted, though, that these items will be familiar to those who were playing FarmVille at this time last year, as they were available then as well. The items are the Candy Gate, which costs 7 Farm Cash, the Candy Arch, priced at 2,000 coins, and a single piece of Candy Fencing, which costs just 800 coins.
Take special note of the Candy Fencing price - normally, themed pieces of fencing cost at least 5,000 coins per square, so this is a definite bonus for those who want to create an expansive Winter / Christmas themed area on their farms this winter.
First, though, there is the Lighted Train, a individual item that costs 22 Farm Cash. If you have the Lighted Gift Box from last year's celebration, you'll recognize the design of the train (which comes with the engine, one car and a caboose connected), as it is bright blue, with animated flashing lights that make it appear as though the train is moving, just as the Lighted Gift Box flashes lights on its ribbon.
The other items are those I spoke of earlier - those items that will help you truly set your other Winter Holiday items apart, in the form of fences and other dividers. It should be noted, though, that these items will be familiar to those who were playing FarmVille at this time last year, as they were available then as well. The items are the Candy Gate, which costs 7 Farm Cash, the Candy Arch, priced at 2,000 coins, and a single piece of Candy Fencing, which costs just 800 coins.
Take special note of the Candy Fencing price - normally, themed pieces of fencing cost at least 5,000 coins per square, so this is a definite bonus for those who want to create an expansive Winter / Christmas themed area on their farms this winter.
Mafia Wars Don's Dinner - Invite your friends for a "wild" good time
While Thanksgiving may be over in the real world, it is still days from completion in the world of Mafia Wars, as Zynga has announced the launch of a small feature in Mafia Wars entitled "Don's Dinner."
This feature will pop up the next time you log into the game, and will be available to complete for almost the next four days (give or take a few minutes). The event is simple - your task is to invite nine of your friends to join you at Don's Dinner. This is done by posting invites directly to your mafia members' Facebook profile walls. You can do so by clicking on the Post Invite buttons you see under the "Pick Mafia to Invite" section. For a bit of clarity, our screenshot above has been altered to protect our neighbors' privacy, but in your own game, there will be a friend's name and profile picture above each "Post Invite" button.
Once you successfully invite nine friends (that is, once nine friends click on the invite on their walls), you'll receive a free "Wild Turkey" animal item. This Wild Turkey has some really impressive stats, especially when considering how little you actually need to do to receive it. If you have lots of active mafia members, you'll receive this 79 Attack and 65 Defense point animal in no time flat - it's a good thing too, as there are only a few days left before this bird, and the event, fly away for good.
This feature will pop up the next time you log into the game, and will be available to complete for almost the next four days (give or take a few minutes). The event is simple - your task is to invite nine of your friends to join you at Don's Dinner. This is done by posting invites directly to your mafia members' Facebook profile walls. You can do so by clicking on the Post Invite buttons you see under the "Pick Mafia to Invite" section. For a bit of clarity, our screenshot above has been altered to protect our neighbors' privacy, but in your own game, there will be a friend's name and profile picture above each "Post Invite" button.
Once you successfully invite nine friends (that is, once nine friends click on the invite on their walls), you'll receive a free "Wild Turkey" animal item. This Wild Turkey has some really impressive stats, especially when considering how little you actually need to do to receive it. If you have lots of active mafia members, you'll receive this 79 Attack and 65 Defense point animal in no time flat - it's a good thing too, as there are only a few days left before this bird, and the event, fly away for good.
RockYou CEO steps down as part of company restructuring
TechCrunch has reported that Lance Tokuda, CEO of RockYou, has stepped down from his role in the company. RockYou are best known for their Birthday Cards application and social game Zoo World, but also have several other successful applications on Facebook such as Hug Me and Pieces of Flair.
Tokuda will be staying with the company, but is changing to a new role in which he is working on 'innovation and strategic initiatives'. This is all part of the corporate restructuring that has taken place after the company laid off around 30% of their staff in mid-October. Tokuda bas been a CEO and founder of RockYou since January of 2006 and clearly has played a big role in the company's success up until now.
Tokuda will be staying with the company, but is changing to a new role in which he is working on 'innovation and strategic initiatives'. This is all part of the corporate restructuring that has taken place after the company laid off around 30% of their staff in mid-October. Tokuda bas been a CEO and founder of RockYou since January of 2006 and clearly has played a big role in the company's success up until now.
Friday, January 13, 2012
Treasure Isle Holiday Theme begins with Gingerbread House Relic & Holiday Tree
If you're ready to celebrate the Holiday season in Treasure Isle, you'll be happy to know that Zynga has launched not one, but two holiday-themed events in the treasure-hunting game.
The first is a new buildable relic, in the form of a Gingerbread House. You'll be able to gather items like Gingerbread, Gumdrops and even Frosting to build the foundation and eventually the walls and roof of this Gingerbread House, but we'll get to more of that later. The other new event is the Holiday Tree event, similar to that launched in FarmVille, that will see you collecting presents to put underneath your tree, that can then be redeemed for all sorts of cool goodies.
Meet us behind the break for an in-depth look at both the Gingerbread House relic, and the Holiday Tree collection event.
First, let's look at the Gingerbread Relic. Every user will be given a free Gingerbread House base when they login to the game. You can either use this relic base right away, or, if you're like many users, and have run out of room on your Home Island for such a large item, you can store it in your gift box until you have done a bit of rearranging to have the room required to place it. Either way, you won't lose the item, so don't fret.
Once placed, you'll need to collect building ingredients, just like with all of the other relics. In this case, though, some of the items are holiday themed, as you'll be collecting not only Dye and Fire (presumably for the cooking needed to bake the Gingerbread House), but also Gingerbread, Gumdrops, and Frosting. The first levels of construction sees you building the foundation of the house, and requires just one of each item.
There are four stages of building in all, each one requiring more and more of each of the five ingredients. You can ask your friends for help in gathering these ingredients by clicking on the "Ask for More" button associated with each item, which allows you to post an item request to your wall, or you can simply buy the ingredients outright for 1 Island Cash each. Remember, if you want to ask your friends for help, the game allows you to have five active ingredient requests on your account at once, so if you want to ask for every ingredient at once, go right ahead.
As for the Holiday Tree, it will also be given to you for free when logging into the game. This is a smaller item, requiring just a small square of land on your Home Island. In a clever move, the tree starts out looking exactly like Charlie Brown's Christmas Tree - the famous branch with a red ornament causing it to sag.
Clicking on the Holiday Tree will allow you to view the internal menu of present collection event, where you'll see the six goodies that are available to earn by collecting presents. If you're at all familiar with the FarmVille Holiday Tree event, you'll know what to expect here.
You can click on the "Ask for Presents" button to be taken to a reverse of the game's free gifts page, where you can ask individual friends to send you a present, rather than posting a general plea on your wall (the current method is much preferable, believe me). You can also send presents to your friends voluntarily by choosing the Present from the game's free gifts page.
Once you start collecting presents, you'll be able to trade them in for fun decorations, or functional items that will help you progress in the game. You'll need just 6 presents to start earning items. Here are the full list of prizes, along with their costs:
Fruit Cake - 6 Presents
Street Lamp - 10 Presents
1 of Each Gem - 12 Presents
Building Materials - 20 Presents
McLovin' (a cute dog wearing a Santa hat) - 50 Presents
JD Turkleton - 75 Presents
It should be noted that the highest prize - the JD Turkleton is the same healable turkey that was released back in the Thanksgiving event (for free, mind you), so unless you missed out on the event entirely last month, you're better off saving your presents for other items.
If you don't have many Treasure Isle neighbors, or simply aren't earning presents quickly enough for your liking, you can buy them for Island Cash, at a rate of 2 Island Cash per one present, or 10 presents for 19 Island Cash, a 1 Island Cash discount on the bulk package. As you collect presents, no matter how you earn them, your tree will change shape, becoming more lush, taller, and elaborate, until it is eventually an entirely decorated tree, leaving the days of Charlie Brown's Christmas special in the dust.
As of this writing, this concludes the available Holiday activities in Treasure Isle, but one only need to look at the entire World Map to get a feeling for what's coming next. The North Pole section has been locked, with a "Coming Soon!" marking on it for weeks, nay, months now, and it would be more than disappointing if Zynga didn't capitalize on this downright perfect opportunity to unleash them on players. Santa, after all, lives at the North Pole - shouldn't we be able to visit him, and dig for holiday-themed treasures along the way? Hopefully Zynga has the same idea, and we'll be sure to let you know if that is indeed the case.
The first is a new buildable relic, in the form of a Gingerbread House. You'll be able to gather items like Gingerbread, Gumdrops and even Frosting to build the foundation and eventually the walls and roof of this Gingerbread House, but we'll get to more of that later. The other new event is the Holiday Tree event, similar to that launched in FarmVille, that will see you collecting presents to put underneath your tree, that can then be redeemed for all sorts of cool goodies.
Meet us behind the break for an in-depth look at both the Gingerbread House relic, and the Holiday Tree collection event.
First, let's look at the Gingerbread Relic. Every user will be given a free Gingerbread House base when they login to the game. You can either use this relic base right away, or, if you're like many users, and have run out of room on your Home Island for such a large item, you can store it in your gift box until you have done a bit of rearranging to have the room required to place it. Either way, you won't lose the item, so don't fret.
Once placed, you'll need to collect building ingredients, just like with all of the other relics. In this case, though, some of the items are holiday themed, as you'll be collecting not only Dye and Fire (presumably for the cooking needed to bake the Gingerbread House), but also Gingerbread, Gumdrops, and Frosting. The first levels of construction sees you building the foundation of the house, and requires just one of each item.
There are four stages of building in all, each one requiring more and more of each of the five ingredients. You can ask your friends for help in gathering these ingredients by clicking on the "Ask for More" button associated with each item, which allows you to post an item request to your wall, or you can simply buy the ingredients outright for 1 Island Cash each. Remember, if you want to ask your friends for help, the game allows you to have five active ingredient requests on your account at once, so if you want to ask for every ingredient at once, go right ahead.
As for the Holiday Tree, it will also be given to you for free when logging into the game. This is a smaller item, requiring just a small square of land on your Home Island. In a clever move, the tree starts out looking exactly like Charlie Brown's Christmas Tree - the famous branch with a red ornament causing it to sag.
Clicking on the Holiday Tree will allow you to view the internal menu of present collection event, where you'll see the six goodies that are available to earn by collecting presents. If you're at all familiar with the FarmVille Holiday Tree event, you'll know what to expect here.
You can click on the "Ask for Presents" button to be taken to a reverse of the game's free gifts page, where you can ask individual friends to send you a present, rather than posting a general plea on your wall (the current method is much preferable, believe me). You can also send presents to your friends voluntarily by choosing the Present from the game's free gifts page.
Once you start collecting presents, you'll be able to trade them in for fun decorations, or functional items that will help you progress in the game. You'll need just 6 presents to start earning items. Here are the full list of prizes, along with their costs:
Fruit Cake - 6 Presents
Street Lamp - 10 Presents
1 of Each Gem - 12 Presents
Building Materials - 20 Presents
McLovin' (a cute dog wearing a Santa hat) - 50 Presents
JD Turkleton - 75 Presents
It should be noted that the highest prize - the JD Turkleton is the same healable turkey that was released back in the Thanksgiving event (for free, mind you), so unless you missed out on the event entirely last month, you're better off saving your presents for other items.
If you don't have many Treasure Isle neighbors, or simply aren't earning presents quickly enough for your liking, you can buy them for Island Cash, at a rate of 2 Island Cash per one present, or 10 presents for 19 Island Cash, a 1 Island Cash discount on the bulk package. As you collect presents, no matter how you earn them, your tree will change shape, becoming more lush, taller, and elaborate, until it is eventually an entirely decorated tree, leaving the days of Charlie Brown's Christmas special in the dust.
As of this writing, this concludes the available Holiday activities in Treasure Isle, but one only need to look at the entire World Map to get a feeling for what's coming next. The North Pole section has been locked, with a "Coming Soon!" marking on it for weeks, nay, months now, and it would be more than disappointing if Zynga didn't capitalize on this downright perfect opportunity to unleash them on players. Santa, after all, lives at the North Pole - shouldn't we be able to visit him, and dig for holiday-themed treasures along the way? Hopefully Zynga has the same idea, and we'll be sure to let you know if that is indeed the case.
FarmVille Mystery Game (12/12/10): Red & green items for the holidays!
It's Sunday, and during the holiday season in FarmVille, that means update time. Tonight's update sees the expiration of the former Mystery Game, and the launching of another. In keeping with the Holiday Season, which is now in full swing, this week's Mystery Game contains a series of red and green items. Not only are these items red and green, but of course they go with the holiday theme to boot - aren't we so lucky!
This week's Mystery Game brings us back to the standard price of 16 Farm Cash per dart, if you'd like to take a chance at receiving one of this week's prizes. The confirmed prizes in this week's Mystery Game are:
Holiday Sleigh
Winter Bridge
Holiday Dining Table
Elf Pig
Red Panda
Some of you may recognize the names of some of these items, as we've given you FarmVille Sneak Peeks of them in the past (most recently the Elf Pig, which we first brought you a look at just yesterday).
This week's Mystery Game will be active until next Sunday, when presumably another installment, filled with another set of exclusive items (that is, found only in the Mystery Game) will be made available. Check back with us then to see what's inside!
This week's Mystery Game brings us back to the standard price of 16 Farm Cash per dart, if you'd like to take a chance at receiving one of this week's prizes. The confirmed prizes in this week's Mystery Game are:
Holiday Sleigh
Winter Bridge
Holiday Dining Table
Elf Pig
Red Panda
Some of you may recognize the names of some of these items, as we've given you FarmVille Sneak Peeks of them in the past (most recently the Elf Pig, which we first brought you a look at just yesterday).
This week's Mystery Game will be active until next Sunday, when presumably another installment, filled with another set of exclusive items (that is, found only in the Mystery Game) will be made available. Check back with us then to see what's inside!
FarmVille Tree Update: Sugar Plum Tree now available, Mint Candy Tree fixed
If you're a tree-lover, you'll be happy to know that there are two items to report on with tonight's FarmVille update. The first bit of news comes in the form of the official release of the Sugar Plum tree as part of the Winter Holiday theme of items, while the second sees Zynga apparently fixing the many issues associated with the recently released Mint Candy Tree.
First things first, the Sugar Plum Tree is now available to purchase from the store for 5 Farm Cash. Considering that this is a limited time tree, only available for the next 35 days as part of the Winter Holiday theme of items, the price is actually quite low. You can harvest the tree every 2 days, and you'll receive 150 coins in the process of doing so. Finally, the tree can be mastered, with the first star of mastery being available after 75 harvests.
In trying to figure out why the price of the Sugar Plum Tree is so low, perhaps it could be because the price of our next tree, the Mint Candy Tree, is so high. How are the two connected? The Mint Candy Tree is a level 2 tree, available from mystery seedlings, and reportedly also available from specific seedlings received when harvesting from an orchard that contains a Sugar Plum Tree. That being the case, the 5 Farm Cash price for the Sugar Plum Tree could help ensure that all users eventually get their hands on a Mint Candy Tree through the Mystery Seedling system, rather than having to pay 30 Farm Cash for the tree outright.
Speaking of this Mint Candy Tree, the problems that we detailed yesterday, that saw the tree being displayed as other kinds of trees in the store image, and then becoming entirely invisible when placed on a players farm, have now been fixed with tonight's update. Feel free to spend the 30 Farm Cash, if you simply can't wait for a Mystery Seedling to appear that may end up growing into one.
Interestingly, even though the Mint Candy Tree seems like it should be listed as a Winter Holiday limited edition offering, it is currently entirely white in the store, so it's presumable that it is in fact a permanent addition to the store, rather than something you'll need to rush to purchase. That's good news for farmers, as the lack of a limited edition branding will allow you more time to save up the necessary Farm Cash to purchase it (if you can concede to spending that much on one tree in the first place - I don't think I could).
First things first, the Sugar Plum Tree is now available to purchase from the store for 5 Farm Cash. Considering that this is a limited time tree, only available for the next 35 days as part of the Winter Holiday theme of items, the price is actually quite low. You can harvest the tree every 2 days, and you'll receive 150 coins in the process of doing so. Finally, the tree can be mastered, with the first star of mastery being available after 75 harvests.
In trying to figure out why the price of the Sugar Plum Tree is so low, perhaps it could be because the price of our next tree, the Mint Candy Tree, is so high. How are the two connected? The Mint Candy Tree is a level 2 tree, available from mystery seedlings, and reportedly also available from specific seedlings received when harvesting from an orchard that contains a Sugar Plum Tree. That being the case, the 5 Farm Cash price for the Sugar Plum Tree could help ensure that all users eventually get their hands on a Mint Candy Tree through the Mystery Seedling system, rather than having to pay 30 Farm Cash for the tree outright.
Speaking of this Mint Candy Tree, the problems that we detailed yesterday, that saw the tree being displayed as other kinds of trees in the store image, and then becoming entirely invisible when placed on a players farm, have now been fixed with tonight's update. Feel free to spend the 30 Farm Cash, if you simply can't wait for a Mystery Seedling to appear that may end up growing into one.
Interestingly, even though the Mint Candy Tree seems like it should be listed as a Winter Holiday limited edition offering, it is currently entirely white in the store, so it's presumable that it is in fact a permanent addition to the store, rather than something you'll need to rush to purchase. That's good news for farmers, as the lack of a limited edition branding will allow you more time to save up the necessary Farm Cash to purchase it (if you can concede to spending that much on one tree in the first place - I don't think I could).
FarmVille Mini Candycane Pony & Mini Candycane Foal now available
This evening's FarmVille update brought with it some very interesting animal additions. Only one of these animals is actually available to purchase in the store, but horse lovers will know where to find the other.
Not to be confused with the Candy Cane Pony (or Candy Cane Foal) that first launched in the game last week, Zynga has launched the Mini Candycane Pony and the Mini Candycane Foal in FarmVille this evening. What's the difference between these two sets of animals, other than the fact that one is spelled "Candy Cane," and the other is spelled "Candycane" (we think it's odd too)? Simply put, the Mini Candycane Pony, and subsequently the Mini Candycane Foal are much smaller than their full-size counterparts that were released last week.
If you ask me, the miniature version of this red and white striped mammal is definitely cuter (look at that face!), but for that extra cuteness, you will find yourself paying two Farm Cash more than if you went with the full sized offering, bringing the mini pony to 26 Farm Cash. You'll gain a whopping 2600 experience points for purchasing the Mini Candycane Pony, and it can be harvested from every 3 days, offering you 84 coins each time.
Of course, you can place the Mini Candycane Pony inside your Horse Stable for a chance to spawn Mini Candycane Foal, which might just be one of the cutest things we've ever seen released in the game (it is pictured on the right in the image at the top of this post).
If you want to get your hands on a Mini Candycane Pony, you'll need to do so within the next 12 days, before the time limit in the store expires and you miss your chance at adding one of these cute animals to your farm.
Not to be confused with the Candy Cane Pony (or Candy Cane Foal) that first launched in the game last week, Zynga has launched the Mini Candycane Pony and the Mini Candycane Foal in FarmVille this evening. What's the difference between these two sets of animals, other than the fact that one is spelled "Candy Cane," and the other is spelled "Candycane" (we think it's odd too)? Simply put, the Mini Candycane Pony, and subsequently the Mini Candycane Foal are much smaller than their full-size counterparts that were released last week.
If you ask me, the miniature version of this red and white striped mammal is definitely cuter (look at that face!), but for that extra cuteness, you will find yourself paying two Farm Cash more than if you went with the full sized offering, bringing the mini pony to 26 Farm Cash. You'll gain a whopping 2600 experience points for purchasing the Mini Candycane Pony, and it can be harvested from every 3 days, offering you 84 coins each time.
Of course, you can place the Mini Candycane Pony inside your Horse Stable for a chance to spawn Mini Candycane Foal, which might just be one of the cutest things we've ever seen released in the game (it is pictured on the right in the image at the top of this post).
If you want to get your hands on a Mini Candycane Pony, you'll need to do so within the next 12 days, before the time limit in the store expires and you miss your chance at adding one of these cute animals to your farm.
FarmVille Holiday Avatar Costumes: Elf, Miss Santa, Penguin, Teddy Bears, & Ski Bunny
If you aren't satisfied with your avatar's current wardrobe in FarmVille, and want to make your farmer look a bit more seasonal, tonight's FarmVille update will allow you to do just that, with six (yes, six!) new options available to make your avatar as cute as can be through the holiday season and beyond.
The six new options all have something to do with either the Winter Holidays or just winter in general, but they interestingly come with a variety of expiration dates and even prices. Here are the list of newly available costumes:
Elf - 15 Farm Cash
Miss Santa - 15 Farm Cash
Penguin - 5 Farm Cash
Cream Teddy Bear - 5 Farm Cash
Tan Teddy Bear - 5 Farm Cash
Ski Bunny - 15 Farm Cash
As for how long they'll be available in the store, the Elf, Miss Santa, and Penguin costumes will expire from the store in just 12 days, while the two teddy bear options will be available for 19 days. The Ski Bunny costume will be available long after the holidays have passed (presumably due to the fact that it isn't exactly a holiday item), with an expiration date of 35 days from now.
Depending on the costume you purchase, you'll earn either 175 experience points or 525 experience points for purchasing one of these costumes - obviously the more the costume costs, the more experience points you'll earn.
I don't know about the rest of you, but some of these costumes are just too cute to bear (Get it? Bear? Bear costumes? Sorry...). I've already made my avatar look like the cutest little Penguin, and I think I'll go back for more costumes before everything is said and done. Will you join me?
The six new options all have something to do with either the Winter Holidays or just winter in general, but they interestingly come with a variety of expiration dates and even prices. Here are the list of newly available costumes:
Elf - 15 Farm Cash
Miss Santa - 15 Farm Cash
Penguin - 5 Farm Cash
Cream Teddy Bear - 5 Farm Cash
Tan Teddy Bear - 5 Farm Cash
Ski Bunny - 15 Farm Cash
As for how long they'll be available in the store, the Elf, Miss Santa, and Penguin costumes will expire from the store in just 12 days, while the two teddy bear options will be available for 19 days. The Ski Bunny costume will be available long after the holidays have passed (presumably due to the fact that it isn't exactly a holiday item), with an expiration date of 35 days from now.
Depending on the costume you purchase, you'll earn either 175 experience points or 525 experience points for purchasing one of these costumes - obviously the more the costume costs, the more experience points you'll earn.
I don't know about the rest of you, but some of these costumes are just too cute to bear (Get it? Bear? Bear costumes? Sorry...). I've already made my avatar look like the cutest little Penguin, and I think I'll go back for more costumes before everything is said and done. Will you join me?
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Amazon gets serious about social games, calls out for developers
The Facebook gaming arena is about to welcome a new gladiator: Amazon. The household name of online retailers (and e-readers) is officially pulling out all the stops for its inevitable entrance into the space, openly and internally calling out for a team of designers and developers.
Since taking on veteran tabletop RPG (roleplaying game) designer Jonathan Tweet for a mysterious project, Reuters reports that signs have appeared in the kitchen of Amazon's Seattle campus that unveil a "Social Games Group." A poster in the kitchen area of the office reads, "The Group is growing fast! We're actively looking," according to Reuters.
It seems that Amazon is primarily looking for software engineers and Flash developers, most likely referring to Adobe Flash, the software through which almost all Facebook games are created. Amazon has reportedly been eying up social gaming since May of this year, calling out for senior level game designers.
Since Amazon hired Tweet for a mysterious project, that's all we knew about the upcoming social games effort from the company. Unfortunately, we still know very little, which leaves us with wild speculation (how lovely). While Amazon is looking strictly for software engineers and Flash developers, we have a feeling this project will be much larger than just pumping out a few games.
Amazon didn't become one of the largest Internet companies in the world without thinking big, so who's to say the company doesn't have equally lofty ambitions for its social gaming efforts? I mean, this is a company has enjoyed success and ubiquity that even the biggest name in social gaming aspires to. That said, it's entirely possible that Amazon looks to create a platform of its very own, complete with games developed in house. Call that an educated guess, or my wild dreams of slaying dragons attached to awesome deals on otherwise pricey cell phone cases and magazine subscriptions.
Since taking on veteran tabletop RPG (roleplaying game) designer Jonathan Tweet for a mysterious project, Reuters reports that signs have appeared in the kitchen of Amazon's Seattle campus that unveil a "Social Games Group." A poster in the kitchen area of the office reads, "The Group is growing fast! We're actively looking," according to Reuters.
It seems that Amazon is primarily looking for software engineers and Flash developers, most likely referring to Adobe Flash, the software through which almost all Facebook games are created. Amazon has reportedly been eying up social gaming since May of this year, calling out for senior level game designers.
Since Amazon hired Tweet for a mysterious project, that's all we knew about the upcoming social games effort from the company. Unfortunately, we still know very little, which leaves us with wild speculation (how lovely). While Amazon is looking strictly for software engineers and Flash developers, we have a feeling this project will be much larger than just pumping out a few games.
Amazon didn't become one of the largest Internet companies in the world without thinking big, so who's to say the company doesn't have equally lofty ambitions for its social gaming efforts? I mean, this is a company has enjoyed success and ubiquity that even the biggest name in social gaming aspires to. That said, it's entirely possible that Amazon looks to create a platform of its very own, complete with games developed in house. Call that an educated guess, or my wild dreams of slaying dragons attached to awesome deals on otherwise pricey cell phone cases and magazine subscriptions.
Vostu snags MP Game Studio, access to brands like Coca-Cola with it
Perhaps Vostu's sticky legal dispute with Zynga isn't so bad, after all. The Brazilian social game creator announced that it has acquired Buenos Aires, Argentina-based MP Game Studio for an undisclosed amount. MP Games has created social games for major (like, huge) brands including Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network, Coca-Cola, Microsoft and National Geographic.
As part of the deal, MP Game Studio will become fully integrated into Vostu, with its employees to relocate to the new Vostu headquarters that just so happens to be located in Buenos Aires, too. And Vostu will hit the ground running with this buyout, expecting to release its first game from the deal over the next few weeks.
"Vostu is committed to creating entertaining social games for our growing user base of over 42 million registered users," Vostu COO Matias Recchia said in a release. "MP has been on the cutting edge of development of online games, working with the most well-known well respected companies and brands and we are excited to add them to our team of more than 550 dedicated, talented and passionate programmers, game designers and artists."
If you hadn't noticed, Vostu is pretty darn excited about not only the talent in MP, but the brands it works with. While it's certainly not our wildest guess, we're confident that Vostu will get into branded social games, thanks to this acquisition. Now, if Vostu has access to that particularly lucrative Coca-Cola license, can we finally get game with those adorable polar bears on Facebook?
As part of the deal, MP Game Studio will become fully integrated into Vostu, with its employees to relocate to the new Vostu headquarters that just so happens to be located in Buenos Aires, too. And Vostu will hit the ground running with this buyout, expecting to release its first game from the deal over the next few weeks.
"Vostu is committed to creating entertaining social games for our growing user base of over 42 million registered users," Vostu COO Matias Recchia said in a release. "MP has been on the cutting edge of development of online games, working with the most well-known well respected companies and brands and we are excited to add them to our team of more than 550 dedicated, talented and passionate programmers, game designers and artists."
If you hadn't noticed, Vostu is pretty darn excited about not only the talent in MP, but the brands it works with. While it's certainly not our wildest guess, we're confident that Vostu will get into branded social games, thanks to this acquisition. Now, if Vostu has access to that particularly lucrative Coca-Cola license, can we finally get game with those adorable polar bears on Facebook?
MapleStory maker Nexon sets sail on Facebook with Wonder Cruise
Clicking cute creatures in MapleStory Adventures sure was fun, but Korean MMO (massively multiplayer online game) developer Nexon is ready to tread new water on Facebook. (Well, at least new water for Nexon.) The global studio based in South Korea has released Wonder Cruise, its second Facebook game tasking players with creating a world-class cruise ship.
While Gamasutra reports that the game will launch after testing with a small audience later this month, it appears that Wonder Cruise is live now for all. So, consider this the open beta for Wonder Cruise, or as we see it: The game is live. The game comes hot off of the heels of MapleStory Adventures, a Facebook rendition of the hugely successful free-to-play MMO that has already amassed over 2.8 million monthly players.
Wonder Cruise looks an awful lot like Perfect World Entertainment's recent Perfect Getaway, but plays a bit differently. Yes, you're still stuck on the same old cruise ship while your customers see the best of what the world has to offer. But this time around, the cruises, well, actually mean something. Each cruise is timed, and once you leave port after customizing and upgrading your ship with decorations and whatnot from the money that guests throw your way, you must help as many patrons have a good time before your ETA by clicking on them.
Wonder Cruise gameplay
Then, you'll be graded on how many guests you satisfied in the time limit, which matches up with a leaderboard spanning your friends. However, each time you help a guest, it consumes Energy that refills at a slow rate, like all Facebook games. This would be fine if you weren't graded on how many guests you help on a given timed cruise. Unfortunately, if you want those coveted S ranks for each trip, you'll have to either buy Energy or bug your friends.
Wonder Cruise is expected to "officially" launch on Sept. 12, Gamasutra reports. When the game releases from an open beta to most likely yet another open beta, Nexon will introduce more content (and hopefully a fix to this Energy system). As the game is testing, Nexon urges players to take a survey. Until then, keep clicking away on those guests ... at least for a minute or two.
While Gamasutra reports that the game will launch after testing with a small audience later this month, it appears that Wonder Cruise is live now for all. So, consider this the open beta for Wonder Cruise, or as we see it: The game is live. The game comes hot off of the heels of MapleStory Adventures, a Facebook rendition of the hugely successful free-to-play MMO that has already amassed over 2.8 million monthly players.
Wonder Cruise looks an awful lot like Perfect World Entertainment's recent Perfect Getaway, but plays a bit differently. Yes, you're still stuck on the same old cruise ship while your customers see the best of what the world has to offer. But this time around, the cruises, well, actually mean something. Each cruise is timed, and once you leave port after customizing and upgrading your ship with decorations and whatnot from the money that guests throw your way, you must help as many patrons have a good time before your ETA by clicking on them.
Wonder Cruise gameplay
Then, you'll be graded on how many guests you satisfied in the time limit, which matches up with a leaderboard spanning your friends. However, each time you help a guest, it consumes Energy that refills at a slow rate, like all Facebook games. This would be fine if you weren't graded on how many guests you help on a given timed cruise. Unfortunately, if you want those coveted S ranks for each trip, you'll have to either buy Energy or bug your friends.
Wonder Cruise is expected to "officially" launch on Sept. 12, Gamasutra reports. When the game releases from an open beta to most likely yet another open beta, Nexon will introduce more content (and hopefully a fix to this Energy system). As the game is testing, Nexon urges players to take a survey. Until then, keep clicking away on those guests ... at least for a minute or two.
Troy Aikman + Facebook = A fantasy football game all about the QBs
Fantasy football, or as I like to call it: The Jock's Dungeons and Dragons, doesn't exactly make for a fun Facebook game. Even the mighty Sports Illustrated couldn't make fantasy football fun on Facebook, regardless of how robust its features are. Troy Aikman (you know, the famous former Dallas Cowboys quarterback?) and Boulder, Co.-based Prediculous--which runs a social game of sorts that challenges players to accurately predict real world events--hope to change that with Aikman 2011 Fantasy QB.
"The quarterback is one of the most important and exciting positions on a football team," Aikman said in a release. "Knowing a little something about that position, I wanted to create a fun fantasy game centered around QBs that anyone can play. From casual fans to long-time fantasy players, this game gives everyone a shot to play and win."
The game simplifies the classic fantasy football gameplay of drafting an entire team down to one of the only positions that matters most exciting positions in all of football: the quarterback. Each week, players will pick their top four QBs for the week that will earn them points based on how they perform in the real NFL games. Then, those choices will be sized up against Aikman's own picks each week found in a video feature uploaded every week.
Aikman 2011 Fantasy QB gameplay
While this will serve as a guide for the casual football fan, it should also serve as a source of competition beyond the stat crunching mega fans and their friends. However, each QB can only be chosen once every three weeks, unless you want to pay up with QB Chips using Facebook Credits. You'll earn QB Chips based on your participation each week as well. And unlike most traditional fantasy football leagues with their rigid times and rules, players can join Aikman 2011 Fantasy QB at any time during the NFL season.
Every Tuesday morning, the game will tally whose QB picks earned the most points per game based on several factors, and declare the winner within your league, which can be comprised of as many as 100 players. Of course, you can brag about your winning predictions using the News Feed, and find friends via requests. Sure, it's a simplistic fantasy football game for Facebook, but maybe that's the key to getting Facebook gamers into fantasy football. We'll see once the season starts on Sept. 8.
"The quarterback is one of the most important and exciting positions on a football team," Aikman said in a release. "Knowing a little something about that position, I wanted to create a fun fantasy game centered around QBs that anyone can play. From casual fans to long-time fantasy players, this game gives everyone a shot to play and win."
The game simplifies the classic fantasy football gameplay of drafting an entire team down to one of the only positions that matters most exciting positions in all of football: the quarterback. Each week, players will pick their top four QBs for the week that will earn them points based on how they perform in the real NFL games. Then, those choices will be sized up against Aikman's own picks each week found in a video feature uploaded every week.
Aikman 2011 Fantasy QB gameplay
While this will serve as a guide for the casual football fan, it should also serve as a source of competition beyond the stat crunching mega fans and their friends. However, each QB can only be chosen once every three weeks, unless you want to pay up with QB Chips using Facebook Credits. You'll earn QB Chips based on your participation each week as well. And unlike most traditional fantasy football leagues with their rigid times and rules, players can join Aikman 2011 Fantasy QB at any time during the NFL season.
Every Tuesday morning, the game will tally whose QB picks earned the most points per game based on several factors, and declare the winner within your league, which can be comprised of as many as 100 players. Of course, you can brag about your winning predictions using the News Feed, and find friends via requests. Sure, it's a simplistic fantasy football game for Facebook, but maybe that's the key to getting Facebook gamers into fantasy football. We'll see once the season starts on Sept. 8.
Kingdoms & Quests looks like Zynga's next big game, a social RPG?
Update: Zynga has since taken down the support pages detailing Kingdoms & Quests. However, the "restricted" app still has a presence on Facebook.
And its worst-kept secret at that. Even before Adventure World has hit Facebook, it looks as if we already know a great deal about Zynga's next major social game. It's called Kingdoms & Quests, and at the moment is available only in Australia, according to brand new support pages for the game.
This is the first we're hearing of this new game, but a detailed guide for beginners reveals quite a lot about the unannounced Kingdoms & Quests. (You can try to access the game via Facebook, though you'll simply come to a screen that reads, "Use of app 'Kingdoms & Quests' is restricted.")
First of all, we know that this game is a fantasy RPG (roleplaying game) in which players gain experience and resources like wood, coins and food through battling monsters as they clear the fog surrounding their kingdom. So, there will be a property management and expansion aspect to Kingdoms & Quests, but the support page drives home that combat is the focus in this game.
Like Empires & Allies before it, players will create a kingdom and populate it with combat units to do battle against monsters in turn-based bouts, though we doubt this game will focus on strategy like E&A does. That's namely because Zynga doesn't at all mention PvP (player vs player) combat nor does it mention large-scale encounters or having to defend your territory. In fact, it looks like you'll only be able to have four units in battle at a time.
Kingdoms & Quests art
Zynga uses language that implies that players will explore the land around them on quests, killing individual groups of monsters with supporting warriors. Furthermore, it looks like players will be able to micromanage their units through equipment either crafted or found during battle. It sounds as if each and every unit will be outfitted with unique weapons.
While PvP doesn't seem to be a part of Kingdoms & Quests, social interaction will, of course, be a major focus ... perhaps more so than in any Zynga game before it. "If a player has an element icon next to their name, rather than the home kingdom icon, you can visit them on their map and play Kingdoms & Quests with them in real-time," the support page reads. Surely, Kingdoms & Quests will be a first for Zynga on many levels. To see what this game will be about in detail, check out its support page right here.
And its worst-kept secret at that. Even before Adventure World has hit Facebook, it looks as if we already know a great deal about Zynga's next major social game. It's called Kingdoms & Quests, and at the moment is available only in Australia, according to brand new support pages for the game.
This is the first we're hearing of this new game, but a detailed guide for beginners reveals quite a lot about the unannounced Kingdoms & Quests. (You can try to access the game via Facebook, though you'll simply come to a screen that reads, "Use of app 'Kingdoms & Quests' is restricted.")
First of all, we know that this game is a fantasy RPG (roleplaying game) in which players gain experience and resources like wood, coins and food through battling monsters as they clear the fog surrounding their kingdom. So, there will be a property management and expansion aspect to Kingdoms & Quests, but the support page drives home that combat is the focus in this game.
Like Empires & Allies before it, players will create a kingdom and populate it with combat units to do battle against monsters in turn-based bouts, though we doubt this game will focus on strategy like E&A does. That's namely because Zynga doesn't at all mention PvP (player vs player) combat nor does it mention large-scale encounters or having to defend your territory. In fact, it looks like you'll only be able to have four units in battle at a time.
Kingdoms & Quests art
Zynga uses language that implies that players will explore the land around them on quests, killing individual groups of monsters with supporting warriors. Furthermore, it looks like players will be able to micromanage their units through equipment either crafted or found during battle. It sounds as if each and every unit will be outfitted with unique weapons.
While PvP doesn't seem to be a part of Kingdoms & Quests, social interaction will, of course, be a major focus ... perhaps more so than in any Zynga game before it. "If a player has an element icon next to their name, rather than the home kingdom icon, you can visit them on their map and play Kingdoms & Quests with them in real-time," the support page reads. Surely, Kingdoms & Quests will be a first for Zynga on many levels. To see what this game will be about in detail, check out its support page right here.
Monday, January 9, 2012
FarmVille Winter Wonderland Items: Mink, Alaska Home, Bald Eagle, & Much More!
For the biggest part of Wednesday, we brought you a look at quite a few then unreleased items that we believed would be launching in FarmVille in the near future. Who would have thought at the time, that the evening would bring a FarmVille update to the game (the second in as many days), that would see the release of a big portion of these items to the game).
This newest FarmVille update is practically overflowing with new items that you'll be able to purchase either to decorate your farm (animals, buildings, and pure decorations), or decorate your avatar (a series of new clothing and accessory items). We have the complete look at these items behind the break, so meet us there for complete pricing details, and for news on how long these items will be available in the game.
The easiest way to give a run-down of these items is by their type, starting with Animals. We have one new limited edition animal to choose from in the form of the American Mink. This cute little fella will set you back only 12 Farm Cash (we say only as this actually is a fairly cheap animal in the grand scheme of things, where animals can easily cost 25 Farm Cash or more).
Moving on, we have one new building available to purchase, called the Alaska Home. It costs 20 Farm Cash, which, again, isn't that high of a Farm Cash cost, if you compare it to other Farm Cash buildings in the game. The Ski Resort, for instance, has a normal price of 30 Farm Cash, while buildings like the Tea House or Pagoda cost upwards of 30-40 Farm Cash each, as examples.
We start to see the real bulk of tonight's update when looking at new decorations, of which there are five. Three of these are Farm Cash items, and they are the Snowy Bridge, Bald Eagle, and Snowy Tree. The Snowy Bridge costs 25 Farm Cash, the Bald Eagle (purely a decorative animal - not available to be harvested from) costs 18 Farm Cash, and the Snowy Tree is available for the bargain price of 3 Farm Cash (Note: it appears that the Snowy Tree has been improperly labeled as a Winter Holiday item, even though it likely should be a part of the Winter Wonderland set. Whatever the reality may be, this doesn't affect its time limit in the store, so don't panic about it selling out extremely fast).
The other two items are the Snowmobile and the Iced Cat, another in the now long line of ice-themed items in the game, this time in the shape of a cat. The Snowmobile is a fairly pricey item, even if it is available for coins, as it will set you back 200,000 coins. The Iced Cat is 50,000 coins.
Finally, the game's Clothing section has tons of items that are now available to help accessorize your avatar. You can purchase a series of scarves and ski goggles, with these items being accessories on top of the other clothing items that your avatar is already wearing. They cost 1 Farm Cash each, and come in the following colors: Black, Pink, Blue, Red, and Purple. If you want a complete outfit for your avatar, instead of just an accessory item, you can also buy the Eskimo costume that goes with your avatar's gender. Of course, girl avatars will only be able to purchase the "Female Eskimo" outfit and vice versa. These outfits cost 10 Farm Cash each, but are pretty darn cute for the cost.
All of these items, regardless of item type or cost, will only be available in the game for the next 13 days. This is presumably the date when all of the Winter Wonderland items will expire, as even those items released before tonight's update will be gone either in 13 days even, or before then. Shop fast if you want to have time to enjoy these items on your farm before they expire from the store (likely for good).
This newest FarmVille update is practically overflowing with new items that you'll be able to purchase either to decorate your farm (animals, buildings, and pure decorations), or decorate your avatar (a series of new clothing and accessory items). We have the complete look at these items behind the break, so meet us there for complete pricing details, and for news on how long these items will be available in the game.
The easiest way to give a run-down of these items is by their type, starting with Animals. We have one new limited edition animal to choose from in the form of the American Mink. This cute little fella will set you back only 12 Farm Cash (we say only as this actually is a fairly cheap animal in the grand scheme of things, where animals can easily cost 25 Farm Cash or more).
Moving on, we have one new building available to purchase, called the Alaska Home. It costs 20 Farm Cash, which, again, isn't that high of a Farm Cash cost, if you compare it to other Farm Cash buildings in the game. The Ski Resort, for instance, has a normal price of 30 Farm Cash, while buildings like the Tea House or Pagoda cost upwards of 30-40 Farm Cash each, as examples.
We start to see the real bulk of tonight's update when looking at new decorations, of which there are five. Three of these are Farm Cash items, and they are the Snowy Bridge, Bald Eagle, and Snowy Tree. The Snowy Bridge costs 25 Farm Cash, the Bald Eagle (purely a decorative animal - not available to be harvested from) costs 18 Farm Cash, and the Snowy Tree is available for the bargain price of 3 Farm Cash (Note: it appears that the Snowy Tree has been improperly labeled as a Winter Holiday item, even though it likely should be a part of the Winter Wonderland set. Whatever the reality may be, this doesn't affect its time limit in the store, so don't panic about it selling out extremely fast).
The other two items are the Snowmobile and the Iced Cat, another in the now long line of ice-themed items in the game, this time in the shape of a cat. The Snowmobile is a fairly pricey item, even if it is available for coins, as it will set you back 200,000 coins. The Iced Cat is 50,000 coins.
Finally, the game's Clothing section has tons of items that are now available to help accessorize your avatar. You can purchase a series of scarves and ski goggles, with these items being accessories on top of the other clothing items that your avatar is already wearing. They cost 1 Farm Cash each, and come in the following colors: Black, Pink, Blue, Red, and Purple. If you want a complete outfit for your avatar, instead of just an accessory item, you can also buy the Eskimo costume that goes with your avatar's gender. Of course, girl avatars will only be able to purchase the "Female Eskimo" outfit and vice versa. These outfits cost 10 Farm Cash each, but are pretty darn cute for the cost.
All of these items, regardless of item type or cost, will only be available in the game for the next 13 days. This is presumably the date when all of the Winter Wonderland items will expire, as even those items released before tonight's update will be gone either in 13 days even, or before then. Shop fast if you want to have time to enjoy these items on your farm before they expire from the store (likely for good).
FarmVille: Belted Duck available as a free gift / adoptable animal
If you've finished building your Duck Pond in FarmVille, you might be looking for some new ducks to fill it with. Luckily, you now have two ways to come across a new duck that has been released in the game in the form of a Belted Duck.
This Belted Duck is a cute black and white duck that is now available to send to your friends from the Free Gifts page. Likewise, you'll be able to receive the Belted Duck as a free gift from your friends. If that doesn't work for you, however, know that the Belted Duck is also now available to find at random times when playing the game, as a "wandering" animal that appears on your farm.
Of course, this will allow you to share the lost and found Duck with your friends on your wall, and likewise, if any of your friends find a duck on their own farms, they'll be able to share it on their wall for you to claim (that is, if you're fast enough to claim it before the lost duck is gone).
It's possible that this Belted Duck will only be available for a limited time, although Zynga didn't announce an expiration date for how long the Duck will last on the page. Either way, to be safe, it might be smart to ask your friends for ducks now, rather than later, while you know they're still available.
This Belted Duck is a cute black and white duck that is now available to send to your friends from the Free Gifts page. Likewise, you'll be able to receive the Belted Duck as a free gift from your friends. If that doesn't work for you, however, know that the Belted Duck is also now available to find at random times when playing the game, as a "wandering" animal that appears on your farm.
Of course, this will allow you to share the lost and found Duck with your friends on your wall, and likewise, if any of your friends find a duck on their own farms, they'll be able to share it on their wall for you to claim (that is, if you're fast enough to claim it before the lost duck is gone).
It's possible that this Belted Duck will only be available for a limited time, although Zynga didn't announce an expiration date for how long the Duck will last on the page. Either way, to be safe, it might be smart to ask your friends for ducks now, rather than later, while you know they're still available.
CityVille reaches 100 million players, nearly half of all Facebook gamers
CityVille is huge
Honestly, we all kind of expected this to happen. CityVille has reached 100 million monthly active players, Mashable reports. Though, it is still staggering to see one Facebook game reach nearly half of all social gamers in just about 40 days when it took the previous champion, FarmVille, months to reach a mere 84 million players. (It's crazy to call 84 million players of a single game "mere," but c'est la vie.)
Actually, CityVille hasn't quite reached the 100 million mark yet, but with 99,903,740 players and up to 400 thousand added daily it truly is only a matter of time, according to Mashable. Regardless of whether CityVille has eclipse the rest of the Zynga game lineup, they're not going anywhere. Zynga games hold four of the top five spots in AppData's list of largest Facebook apps. In fact, a game by another developer doesn't appear on the list until 17th place with Digital Chocolate's Millionaire City. However, it's unlikely that CityVille can retain 100 million monthly players for long much less stay on top. Then again, it's more than likely that it'll be yet another Zynga game that eventually topples the gargantuan city builder.
Honestly, we all kind of expected this to happen. CityVille has reached 100 million monthly active players, Mashable reports. Though, it is still staggering to see one Facebook game reach nearly half of all social gamers in just about 40 days when it took the previous champion, FarmVille, months to reach a mere 84 million players. (It's crazy to call 84 million players of a single game "mere," but c'est la vie.)
Actually, CityVille hasn't quite reached the 100 million mark yet, but with 99,903,740 players and up to 400 thousand added daily it truly is only a matter of time, according to Mashable. Regardless of whether CityVille has eclipse the rest of the Zynga game lineup, they're not going anywhere. Zynga games hold four of the top five spots in AppData's list of largest Facebook apps. In fact, a game by another developer doesn't appear on the list until 17th place with Digital Chocolate's Millionaire City. However, it's unlikely that CityVille can retain 100 million monthly players for long much less stay on top. Then again, it's more than likely that it'll be yet another Zynga game that eventually topples the gargantuan city builder.
Mafia Wars Bury The Mole Event: Everything you need to know
Johnny D. SpeedsterAnother weekend, another gifting event in Mafia Wars. Starting now, players can partake in Zynga's next gift-giving extravaganza, "Bury the Mole." Just like all gifting events in the game, players will have to send one another a new gift every few days in order to master each reward item. In order to achieve Gold Mastery of each gift, you'll need to collect a total of 28 of each gift. Here's a look at each of the gifts and the rewards attached to them with Gold Mastery statistics:
28 Corpse Mulches = Garden Snake (51 Attack, 73 Defense)
28 Grave Spades = Green Thumb (74 Attack, 55 Defense)
28 Pushing Daisies = Cultivator (45 Attack, 78 Defense)
Master all three items and the grand prize, the Johnny D. Speedster (get it?), is yours. This Superior quality vehicle packs 100 Attack and 135 Defense, so it would be a fine investment to complete this event. (Finally, some impressive items for free.) Actually, if you manage to complete the event early, you're free to do it all over again two more times for extra loot. With a total of 84 gifts to collect and only 10 more days to do it, you better get to that Free Gifts page quick.
28 Corpse Mulches = Garden Snake (51 Attack, 73 Defense)
28 Grave Spades = Green Thumb (74 Attack, 55 Defense)
28 Pushing Daisies = Cultivator (45 Attack, 78 Defense)
Master all three items and the grand prize, the Johnny D. Speedster (get it?), is yours. This Superior quality vehicle packs 100 Attack and 135 Defense, so it would be a fine investment to complete this event. (Finally, some impressive items for free.) Actually, if you manage to complete the event early, you're free to do it all over again two more times for extra loot. With a total of 84 gifts to collect and only 10 more days to do it, you better get to that Free Gifts page quick.
FarmVille Sneak Peek: Model Farms could put a farm in your farm
Model Farm Neighbor Icon
You know, so you can farm while you farm? FarmVille Freak has found two interesting icons that imply yet another unreleased FarmVille feature could be on the way simply called "Model Farms." Nothing is known about this potential other than its name and that it appears as if we'll be able to create and maintain our very own miniature farms. Also, it seems that neighbors will somehow be involved in the process as well.
But who knows what purpose a feature like this would serve. Considering we already have storage space and it doesn't seem to involve any sort of animal or vehicle, the possibilities are up in the air. Let's just hope it goes beyond the now standard gifting function between friends.
You know, so you can farm while you farm? FarmVille Freak has found two interesting icons that imply yet another unreleased FarmVille feature could be on the way simply called "Model Farms." Nothing is known about this potential other than its name and that it appears as if we'll be able to create and maintain our very own miniature farms. Also, it seems that neighbors will somehow be involved in the process as well.
But who knows what purpose a feature like this would serve. Considering we already have storage space and it doesn't seem to involve any sort of animal or vehicle, the possibilities are up in the air. Let's just hope it goes beyond the now standard gifting function between friends.
CityVille Sneak Peek: Baseball Park, Bus Station and... a Prison?
Bus Station Prison
When a game like CityVille reaches 100 million monthly players, you know the rampant file digging is to come soon after. Thankfully, CityVille Info has discovered three potential new community buildings that may soon arrive in the game, a Baseball Park, a Bus Station and, strangely enough, a Prison.
Actually, the Baseball Park is somewhat of a given considering there are Goals already in place in the game that involve the item. But the Bus Station and Prison don't seem to be attached to any Goals at the moment and will likely just be more sources from which to increase your population cap. And leave it to Zynga to turn one of society's darkest institutions into a cute, quaint little building. Hopefully this doesn't lead to Goals involving criminals--that would just be weird.
When a game like CityVille reaches 100 million monthly players, you know the rampant file digging is to come soon after. Thankfully, CityVille Info has discovered three potential new community buildings that may soon arrive in the game, a Baseball Park, a Bus Station and, strangely enough, a Prison.
Actually, the Baseball Park is somewhat of a given considering there are Goals already in place in the game that involve the item. But the Bus Station and Prison don't seem to be attached to any Goals at the moment and will likely just be more sources from which to increase your population cap. And leave it to Zynga to turn one of society's darkest institutions into a cute, quaint little building. Hopefully this doesn't lead to Goals involving criminals--that would just be weird.
Nearly half of social gamers play on two devices, survey says
Has it sunk in yet? Mobile is surely one of the next steps for social games, if a recent survey of 10 thousand social gamers is any indication. Put together by mobile social game developer Itsmy, the company found that 45 percent of social gamers in the U.S. and Europe play the same games on both their computers and a second device. This implies that nearly half of the social gaming community is playing games like FarmVille and Mafia Wars both in their browsers and on a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet computer.
Better yet, the Itsmy survey found that 38 percent of the social gaming crowd plays the games solely on a mobile device. (When it comes to FarmVille, I can attest to that.) And weirdly enough, the company claims, "10 percent are already playing social games with four or more different devices, like mobile phone, PC, gaming console, tablet or TV ." Do people really need to be that connected to the farm?
"2011 will be the year of cross device and browser gaming," Itsmy CEO Antonio Vince Staybl says. "The mobile phone is still the first device to play our social games, but netbooks, gaming consoles, iPods and tablets are catching up rapidly."
Whelp, I guess some folks do then. However, keep in mind that the details of this survey are scant (aside from the sample) and it was conducted by a mobile social game developer. But no matter how you slice it, mobile seems to be where it's at.
Better yet, the Itsmy survey found that 38 percent of the social gaming crowd plays the games solely on a mobile device. (When it comes to FarmVille, I can attest to that.) And weirdly enough, the company claims, "10 percent are already playing social games with four or more different devices, like mobile phone, PC, gaming console, tablet or TV ." Do people really need to be that connected to the farm?
"2011 will be the year of cross device and browser gaming," Itsmy CEO Antonio Vince Staybl says. "The mobile phone is still the first device to play our social games, but netbooks, gaming consoles, iPods and tablets are catching up rapidly."
Whelp, I guess some folks do then. However, keep in mind that the details of this survey are scant (aside from the sample) and it was conducted by a mobile social game developer. But no matter how you slice it, mobile seems to be where it's at.
CityVille: Zynga Gazette and Bank bring news, money and population
Zynga Gazette
Two new Community Buildings have arrived in Cityville: the Zynga Gazette and the Bank. Like all Community Buildings, both will increase your population cap and, unfortunately, both require you to fill several staff positions with friends. The Bank, which is open to players Level 13 and above, goes for 6,000 coins and raises your population cap by 250. The Zynga Gazette on the other hand unlocks after Level 23, costs 18,000 coins and increases your total available population by 450.
We find it odd that the Zynga Gazette wasn't pegged as the target for any future Goals. Just imagine the possibilities. I mean, how many super hero news reporters are there? Or how about a muckraking media scandal involving you, the mayor? Oh well, maybe our cities will get their own super heroes another day. Until then, at least we have some new buildings to put up.
Two new Community Buildings have arrived in Cityville: the Zynga Gazette and the Bank. Like all Community Buildings, both will increase your population cap and, unfortunately, both require you to fill several staff positions with friends. The Bank, which is open to players Level 13 and above, goes for 6,000 coins and raises your population cap by 250. The Zynga Gazette on the other hand unlocks after Level 23, costs 18,000 coins and increases your total available population by 450.
We find it odd that the Zynga Gazette wasn't pegged as the target for any future Goals. Just imagine the possibilities. I mean, how many super hero news reporters are there? Or how about a muckraking media scandal involving you, the mayor? Oh well, maybe our cities will get their own super heroes another day. Until then, at least we have some new buildings to put up.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
FarmVille Valentine's Countdown Day 6: Caramel Bear
While most of the Valentine's Day items are leaving FarmVille, the Valentine's Countdown presses on. FarmVille Freak reports that this time around, the item of the day is a Caramel Bear. This adorable little plush bear can be yours if you just request it from your friends through a News Feed post. Just click on the heart icon under your status bar and the Valentine's Countdown will appear. Then, click on the "Ask/Share" button to spread the news (and bears).
Have you received the Caramel Bear yet? What do you hope will be the next item in the series?
Have you received the Caramel Bear yet? What do you hope will be the next item in the series?
AT&T social gaming platform coming to Android phones
Ever since Apple opened up its iPhone to Verizon customers, AT&T has been pouting over its loss of exclusivity through scathing ad campaigns. The carrier hopes to restore some of that with a new project in conjunction with mobile social games network OpenFeint. According to Social Times, this new mobile social games network will be exclusive to Android phones and appears to be a direct competitor with Apple's Game Center for iOS.
OpenFeint is available on both Android and iOS with over 65 million registered players across 4,500 games. An AT&T spokeswoman told Social Times, "The net-net here is that we want developers to build more connected games for our customers." In other words, AT&T wants to scrounge up some level of exclusivity with a platform ... any platform. Will it do any better than Game Center has for iPhones? Isn't "How will AT&T will cope with iPhone 'Big Love'?" a more pressing question?
OpenFeint is available on both Android and iOS with over 65 million registered players across 4,500 games. An AT&T spokeswoman told Social Times, "The net-net here is that we want developers to build more connected games for our customers." In other words, AT&T wants to scrounge up some level of exclusivity with a platform ... any platform. Will it do any better than Game Center has for iPhones? Isn't "How will AT&T will cope with iPhone 'Big Love'?" a more pressing question?
Angry Birds Vs. CityVille: The birds are soaring to social networks
And here we were, calling out to the heavens, "Who will stand up to the mighty CityVille?" Unsurprisingly, Angry Birds creator Rovio mentioned at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain that it will be taking our irate, plump avian friends online and onto social networks (i.e. Facebook). Though, it is surprising that we didn't think of this when drafting our predictions for 2011. Who else could defeat Zynga and the most popular social game ever than the most popular mobile game ever?
While Rovio wouldn't provide any details concerning its imminent move to our web browsers, according to The Next Web, it did say that it plans to bring another 100 million players in the move to Facebook. (Alright, so Facebook isn't confirmed, but the game's Valentine's Day edition suggest otherwise.) Considering the game has already reached 75 million downloads--and social games are free to play--that's not too far a stretch. Not to mention Rovio has the strength of the Angry Birds name, which is just about everywhere from board games to stuffed animals and Super Bowl commercials.
With that kind of following, Zynga should be shakin' in its boots right about now. Especially with CityVille in slow decline from its peak of over 100 million players last month. When your game has been featured in a Super Bowl commercial you probably don't need to worry about that cross promotion nonsense. Since Rovio is currently working on Angry Birds Rio, the birds likely won't be hitting Facebook until Spring at the earliest. Will Rovio prove the naysayers wrong?
While Rovio wouldn't provide any details concerning its imminent move to our web browsers, according to The Next Web, it did say that it plans to bring another 100 million players in the move to Facebook. (Alright, so Facebook isn't confirmed, but the game's Valentine's Day edition suggest otherwise.) Considering the game has already reached 75 million downloads--and social games are free to play--that's not too far a stretch. Not to mention Rovio has the strength of the Angry Birds name, which is just about everywhere from board games to stuffed animals and Super Bowl commercials.
With that kind of following, Zynga should be shakin' in its boots right about now. Especially with CityVille in slow decline from its peak of over 100 million players last month. When your game has been featured in a Super Bowl commercial you probably don't need to worry about that cross promotion nonsense. Since Rovio is currently working on Angry Birds Rio, the birds likely won't be hitting Facebook until Spring at the earliest. Will Rovio prove the naysayers wrong?
FarmVille Tree Orchards shrink and shrivel in new size glitch
Mini Orchard
First they were too big, and now they're too small. When are they going to be just right? Orchards in FarmVille have suffered yet another sizing glitch, according to FarmVille Freak. Reports and images have been cropping up from several players claiming that their Orchards have shrunk. And although you might have trouble clicking on your miniature trees, these Orchards are 100 percent functional. Zynga will eventually fix this error like it does for most size glitches. Take your screen shots while this little gem lasts.
[Image Credit: FarmVille Freak]
Have you witnessed this glitch on the farm? What has been the most entertaining glitch for you thus far?
First they were too big, and now they're too small. When are they going to be just right? Orchards in FarmVille have suffered yet another sizing glitch, according to FarmVille Freak. Reports and images have been cropping up from several players claiming that their Orchards have shrunk. And although you might have trouble clicking on your miniature trees, these Orchards are 100 percent functional. Zynga will eventually fix this error like it does for most size glitches. Take your screen shots while this little gem lasts.
[Image Credit: FarmVille Freak]
Have you witnessed this glitch on the farm? What has been the most entertaining glitch for you thus far?
Earn 250 free FrontierVille Horseshoes through Netflix free trial
Horseshoes
Sure, FarmVille has its sponsored links down, but Zynga knows how to make it rain Horseshoes in FrontierVille too. In the most recent promotion on the homestead, pioneers can earn 250 Horseshoes after signing up for a free Netflix trial. If you're one of the millions who already use the service, that's too bad. But for those living under the proverbial rock this is a golden opportunity.
Just click on the banner ad beneath the game screen and you'll be taken to a pop-up. This is a good one, trust us. Follow the link that reads "Place Order Now" to the Netflix homepage. From there, sign up for a free one month trial. After signing up, we suggest allowing at least 30 minutes for the 250 Horseshoes to post to your account.
FrontierVille Netflix
Just be sure to cancel your subscription before the trial transitions into tapping your account monthly. That is, if you end up not digging Netflix (fat chance). Now kick back, boot up the homestead and catch on your backlog of "The Office" episodes. At least that's what I did.
[Image Credit: Life 123]
Do you already use the Netflix service? Is this enough to get you try out the service--as if it weren't awesome enough?
Sure, FarmVille has its sponsored links down, but Zynga knows how to make it rain Horseshoes in FrontierVille too. In the most recent promotion on the homestead, pioneers can earn 250 Horseshoes after signing up for a free Netflix trial. If you're one of the millions who already use the service, that's too bad. But for those living under the proverbial rock this is a golden opportunity.
Just click on the banner ad beneath the game screen and you'll be taken to a pop-up. This is a good one, trust us. Follow the link that reads "Place Order Now" to the Netflix homepage. From there, sign up for a free one month trial. After signing up, we suggest allowing at least 30 minutes for the 250 Horseshoes to post to your account.
FrontierVille Netflix
Just be sure to cancel your subscription before the trial transitions into tapping your account monthly. That is, if you end up not digging Netflix (fat chance). Now kick back, boot up the homestead and catch on your backlog of "The Office" episodes. At least that's what I did.
[Image Credit: Life 123]
Do you already use the Netflix service? Is this enough to get you try out the service--as if it weren't awesome enough?
Thursday, January 5, 2012
FarmVille English Countryside first look!
FarmVille, now Zynga's second largest game on Facebook, is still, well, mind-numbingly popular despite the fact that it has been around since June 2009. Some other fun facts about FarmVille: 14 million people checked into their virtual farms yesterday, the game's Facebook page has 30 million fans (that beats out Justin Bieber's Facebook page, with 22.8 million fans) and there are more tractors in FarmVille than there are in the entire world. Not bad for a farming simulation that some (cranky) people hesitate to classify as a 'game.'
Now FarmVille is getting ready to release its biggest update in its two-year history -- the FarmVille English Countryside. Zynga gave Games.com a first look at the new expansion, which will give players level 20 and up access to a brand new farm in England. This second piece of virtual farmland will have new crops, new activities (like breeding sheep and running a pub) and a new, more directed game experience culled from other popular Zynga games like FrontierVille and CityVille.
"This is a whole new idea of giving people a fresh start, rather than just adding more space to their current farms," FarmVille General Manger Todd Arnold says." It's also a great way for friends to re-sync their social game experience together. Friends might be involved in different aspects of the the game, but [the English Countryside] will give all players a fresh start, and allow them to reconnect with friends who are also playing FarmVille."
Probably one of the biggest changes you'll notice in the English Countryside expansion is what I'm calling the "Frontierville-ification" of FarmVille. Put simply, this add-on will include more characters, more missions and a more in-depth storyline.
When the English Countryside launches, you'll be introduced to 'Duke,' who needs help repairing his airship. After collecting crates from friends and growing cotton, among other things, the airship will be up and running, and after throwing a Bon Voyage party, you'll be able to take your first excursion to the English Countryside. Once your there, you'll undertake a series of missions to return the farm to its former glory.
farmville english countryside quest map
As for syncing up with friends, the new game will have a brand new 'Quest Map' that will let you a visual representation on your FarmVille friends' progress and enable you to jump in and help them (and vice versa) with whatever missions they might be currently working on.
In addition to a more formalized mission structure, Arnold says that the expansion will still have some of the free-form gameplay from the original FarmVille. You'll be able to grow and master crops (faster than before), you'll have a sheep pen that will allow you pair different breeds of ewes and rams to come up with "endless" varieties of sheep. There will also be a English Pub, which will be a new form of crafting building, and you'll be able to make cheese, etc etc.
farmville english countryside sheep breeding
Once you venture into the English Countryside, you will be free to visit your original farm via airship whenever you please. The two areas, will mostly offer separate experiences, so that means you don't be able to use items you might have in storage in England and vice versa. Your avatar will look the same (with more decidedly English wardrobe options), though, and you will have access to certain items in your gift box in either location.
But you won't exactly be starting the game over from scratch. For those of us who remember the pain of building and upgrading our horse barns and combine tractors -- the expansion will show players mercy, says Arnold. Instead of building another new combine tractor, he says you'll "restore the old combine on the farm." Similarly, the horse barn will be "a little bit broken down, and you'll fix it up." Phew.
farmville english countryside uk sheepVisiting friends farms will also change a bit. When you decide to visit a friend, you'll land on whatever farm they tended during their last play session. So, if my friend Sharon was working on her English farm most recently, then when I visit her, I will land on her English farm. If she worked on her original farm last, then I would land on her original farm.
For international players who might have been miffed this week about missing out on the FarmVille Stouffers promotion, Arnold assures me that will not be the case with the expansion. The FarmVille English Countryside will roll out internationally. People who play FarmVille primarily on iPhone or iPad will not have access to the new expansion, though Arnold says it's a "possibility" sometime in the future.
After getting a demo of all these features yesterday, I have to say that I going back and tending my regular farm didn't seem nearly as exciting, and it was impossible not to daydream about my brand new farm. I'll guarantee this new expansion will -- at the very least -- reignite players' passion for virtual farming far more than any other add-on we've seen in the past few years.
Check out the rest of our FarmVille English Countryside coverage right here.
Well, what do you think the about the FarmVille English Countryside? Which new features are you (if any) most excited about?
Now FarmVille is getting ready to release its biggest update in its two-year history -- the FarmVille English Countryside. Zynga gave Games.com a first look at the new expansion, which will give players level 20 and up access to a brand new farm in England. This second piece of virtual farmland will have new crops, new activities (like breeding sheep and running a pub) and a new, more directed game experience culled from other popular Zynga games like FrontierVille and CityVille.
"This is a whole new idea of giving people a fresh start, rather than just adding more space to their current farms," FarmVille General Manger Todd Arnold says." It's also a great way for friends to re-sync their social game experience together. Friends might be involved in different aspects of the the game, but [the English Countryside] will give all players a fresh start, and allow them to reconnect with friends who are also playing FarmVille."
Probably one of the biggest changes you'll notice in the English Countryside expansion is what I'm calling the "Frontierville-ification" of FarmVille. Put simply, this add-on will include more characters, more missions and a more in-depth storyline.
When the English Countryside launches, you'll be introduced to 'Duke,' who needs help repairing his airship. After collecting crates from friends and growing cotton, among other things, the airship will be up and running, and after throwing a Bon Voyage party, you'll be able to take your first excursion to the English Countryside. Once your there, you'll undertake a series of missions to return the farm to its former glory.
farmville english countryside quest map
As for syncing up with friends, the new game will have a brand new 'Quest Map' that will let you a visual representation on your FarmVille friends' progress and enable you to jump in and help them (and vice versa) with whatever missions they might be currently working on.
In addition to a more formalized mission structure, Arnold says that the expansion will still have some of the free-form gameplay from the original FarmVille. You'll be able to grow and master crops (faster than before), you'll have a sheep pen that will allow you pair different breeds of ewes and rams to come up with "endless" varieties of sheep. There will also be a English Pub, which will be a new form of crafting building, and you'll be able to make cheese, etc etc.
farmville english countryside sheep breeding
Once you venture into the English Countryside, you will be free to visit your original farm via airship whenever you please. The two areas, will mostly offer separate experiences, so that means you don't be able to use items you might have in storage in England and vice versa. Your avatar will look the same (with more decidedly English wardrobe options), though, and you will have access to certain items in your gift box in either location.
But you won't exactly be starting the game over from scratch. For those of us who remember the pain of building and upgrading our horse barns and combine tractors -- the expansion will show players mercy, says Arnold. Instead of building another new combine tractor, he says you'll "restore the old combine on the farm." Similarly, the horse barn will be "a little bit broken down, and you'll fix it up." Phew.
farmville english countryside uk sheepVisiting friends farms will also change a bit. When you decide to visit a friend, you'll land on whatever farm they tended during their last play session. So, if my friend Sharon was working on her English farm most recently, then when I visit her, I will land on her English farm. If she worked on her original farm last, then I would land on her original farm.
For international players who might have been miffed this week about missing out on the FarmVille Stouffers promotion, Arnold assures me that will not be the case with the expansion. The FarmVille English Countryside will roll out internationally. People who play FarmVille primarily on iPhone or iPad will not have access to the new expansion, though Arnold says it's a "possibility" sometime in the future.
After getting a demo of all these features yesterday, I have to say that I going back and tending my regular farm didn't seem nearly as exciting, and it was impossible not to daydream about my brand new farm. I'll guarantee this new expansion will -- at the very least -- reignite players' passion for virtual farming far more than any other add-on we've seen in the past few years.
Check out the rest of our FarmVille English Countryside coverage right here.
Well, what do you think the about the FarmVille English Countryside? Which new features are you (if any) most excited about?
CityVille Police Station Upgrades: Everything you need to know
It's time to play Cops and Robbers in CityVille with a massive overhaul to the Police Station community building. Now, players have the opportunity to upgrade their Police Station, but they will have to request from their friends five different items to complete it. Once players finish these upgrades by either asking friends or sending them out through the free gifts page, the second level of the Police Station will be complete and little police officers will begin patrolling the streets. And here's the best part: They're your friends!
Items Required for Level 2
Items Required for Police Station Level 2:
5 Sirens
5 Balls and Chain
5 Badges
5 Whistles
5 Outfits
Police Station Level 2 will unlock a whole new feature to CityVille: Cops and Bandits. Once you collect from businesses after upgrading the Police Station, Bandits will have a chance of appearing in your city. While they won't actually reduce your collection values, catching Bandits will earn you rewards. However, catching Bandits requires Police Officers, two of which you receive immediately upon upgrading.
Police Station Menu
Types of Bandits to Capture:
Billy the Bandit
Meowing Marauder
Couture Criminal
Pie-faced Pete
Mommy and Clyde
The Heartbreaker
While all Bandits supply rewards, some will even provide new Businesses upon capture. Police Officers can apprehend one Bandit at a time, and need to eat Donuts (how mildly offensive of you, Zynga) before catching more criminals. These can be requested from friends through the brand new Police Station menu or bought for City Cash. Also, these Police Officers have titles, though they don't seem to effect anything. As you upgrade the Police Station beyond Level 2, your squad will grow by one for each increase. And, of course, catching more Bandits leads to upgrades for your building.
Police Station Upgrades
Police Station Upgrade Requirements:
Level 3: Capture 10 Bandits or 60 City Cash
Level 4: Capture 30 Bandits or 120 City Cash
When you upgrade to Level 3, Police Officers will capture Bandits in a patrol car, but at Level 4 they will break onto the scene in SWAT vans. Rewards are automatically thrown into your inventory upon catching Bandits, but those Bandits can also escape your Police Station. However, if your Cops are "Sleeping," or in between Donuts, you will not be able to capture the Bandit until you wake them up again. According to these screen shots, it looks as if there is room for upgrades beyond Level 4, so there will be a lot more Bandit bustin' where this came from.
[Source and Image Credit: CityVille Goals]
Check out the rest of our CityVille Cheats & Tips right here.
Have you started the Police Station upgrades yet? What tips do you have for getting this feature going even faster?
Items Required for Level 2
Items Required for Police Station Level 2:
5 Sirens
5 Balls and Chain
5 Badges
5 Whistles
5 Outfits
Police Station Level 2 will unlock a whole new feature to CityVille: Cops and Bandits. Once you collect from businesses after upgrading the Police Station, Bandits will have a chance of appearing in your city. While they won't actually reduce your collection values, catching Bandits will earn you rewards. However, catching Bandits requires Police Officers, two of which you receive immediately upon upgrading.
Police Station Menu
Types of Bandits to Capture:
Billy the Bandit
Meowing Marauder
Couture Criminal
Pie-faced Pete
Mommy and Clyde
The Heartbreaker
While all Bandits supply rewards, some will even provide new Businesses upon capture. Police Officers can apprehend one Bandit at a time, and need to eat Donuts (how mildly offensive of you, Zynga) before catching more criminals. These can be requested from friends through the brand new Police Station menu or bought for City Cash. Also, these Police Officers have titles, though they don't seem to effect anything. As you upgrade the Police Station beyond Level 2, your squad will grow by one for each increase. And, of course, catching more Bandits leads to upgrades for your building.
Police Station Upgrades
Police Station Upgrade Requirements:
Level 3: Capture 10 Bandits or 60 City Cash
Level 4: Capture 30 Bandits or 120 City Cash
When you upgrade to Level 3, Police Officers will capture Bandits in a patrol car, but at Level 4 they will break onto the scene in SWAT vans. Rewards are automatically thrown into your inventory upon catching Bandits, but those Bandits can also escape your Police Station. However, if your Cops are "Sleeping," or in between Donuts, you will not be able to capture the Bandit until you wake them up again. According to these screen shots, it looks as if there is room for upgrades beyond Level 4, so there will be a lot more Bandit bustin' where this came from.
[Source and Image Credit: CityVille Goals]
Check out the rest of our CityVille Cheats & Tips right here.
Have you started the Police Station upgrades yet? What tips do you have for getting this feature going even faster?
Poll: Is the FarmVille Pot of Gold full of cheaters?
After seeing an image of FarmVille forum contributor Grazy197's Pot of Gold, players appear to be split down the middle on the issue. Some of his friends have amassed over 30 thousand pieces of Gold for their Pots, which appears to be impossible. Sure, the players could, in theory, gather this much Gold through the News Feed, their own Leprechaun Cottage, their friends' Cottages and the Free Gifts page. Though, according to some players, that would take entirely too much time for these players to not be using a third party application like Bonus Clicker. So, we want to hear it from you:
Is the FarmVille Pot of Gold full of cheaters?
Isn't it obvious? Just look at those numbers!No. I could get that much Gold through dedication and more friends.I'm not friends with cheaters, so it doesn't matter me none.Look, just leave these players alone. I'm no cheater or anything...
Vote
Is the FarmVille Pot of Gold full of cheaters?
Isn't it obvious? Just look at those numbers!No. I could get that much Gold through dedication and more friends.I'm not friends with cheaters, so it doesn't matter me none.Look, just leave these players alone. I'm no cheater or anything...
Vote
FrontierVille Coyote and Chickens Eaten Collections arrive early
Two new Collections have snuck their way into FrontierVille today. The Coyote and Chickens Eaten Collections should be in your Collections menu right about now, but the Coyotes are nowhere to be found. This seems part of Zynga's usual strategy of leaking new features rather than releasing them all at once upon the millions of pioneers. The Coyote Collection calls for Mangled Feathers, Coyote Howling, Coyote Pelt, Coyote Pendant and a Coyote Tail. Since the Coyote feature isn't even here yet, our best guess is that we'll receive these items for fighting back against the Coyotes. Turn in all five items to receive a Stuffed Coyote.
Chickens Eaten Collection
Chickens Eaten, the second Collection, is definitely more confusing. While it's still too early to tell, we're going to say that this Collection has to do with picking up the pieces of dead Chickens. Or perhaps we're forced to use some unfortunate Chickens as bait to trap the Coyotes! Too dark? Moving right along, this Collection requires Chicken Beak, Chicken Comb, Chicken Feet, Chicken Skull and a Chicken Wing. Turning in the Collection apparently involves some sort of necromancy, because the reward is one live Chicken. Can I get a "hooray" for dark magic?
Have you seen these Collections in your game yet? When do you think the Coyotes will arrive and how will we retrieve these dead Chicken parts?
Chickens Eaten Collection
Chickens Eaten, the second Collection, is definitely more confusing. While it's still too early to tell, we're going to say that this Collection has to do with picking up the pieces of dead Chickens. Or perhaps we're forced to use some unfortunate Chickens as bait to trap the Coyotes! Too dark? Moving right along, this Collection requires Chicken Beak, Chicken Comb, Chicken Feet, Chicken Skull and a Chicken Wing. Turning in the Collection apparently involves some sort of necromancy, because the reward is one live Chicken. Can I get a "hooray" for dark magic?
Have you seen these Collections in your game yet? When do you think the Coyotes will arrive and how will we retrieve these dead Chicken parts?
FrontierVille offers free Prairie Pox cure; no Goals necessary!
It seems that Zynga has seen the lack of pioneers that have completed the Prairie Pox Goals in FrontierVille (i.e. me) and decided to give them a freebie. Eucalypt, a FrontierVille forum contributor, was greeted by the above message upon logging in recently. Basically, taking the cure will relieve you and yours' Prairie Pox infection instantly, subverting the lengthy Goal series entirely. Several players have reported replying "No Thanks!" as they're either almost through the series or are simply purists. As for me, you better believe I'm pressing that green button!
[Image Credit: Eucalypt]
Have you seen this message appear on your homestead yet? Would you choose to take the cure or do it all the hard way?
[Image Credit: Eucalypt]
Have you seen this message appear on your homestead yet? Would you choose to take the cure or do it all the hard way?
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
FarmVille Spring Animal Sneak Peek: Yellow Duck, Flower Sheep, Flower Rabbit, & More
We've found a new set of unreleased animals that will likely be coming to FarmVille in the near future. We're guessing that these animals might be prizes in an upcoming Mystery Game, since they all seem to fit into the same theme, or they could even be prizes for the upcoming Spring Basket for this year.
The animals are the Yellow Patch Cow, Yellow Patch Calf, Flower Rabbit, Flower Sheep, and the Yellow Duck. It's presumable that in this case, only the Yellow Patch Cow would actually be released as a prize / to purchase in the store, and that you'd later receive the Calf by breeding the Cow in the Dairy Barn.
No matter how these animals are made available in the game, we'll make sure to give you complete details on how to add them to your farm as soon as we know more.
Which of these animals is your favorite? Is yellow your favorite springtime color, or would you prefer a pink or blue set of items instead?
The animals are the Yellow Patch Cow, Yellow Patch Calf, Flower Rabbit, Flower Sheep, and the Yellow Duck. It's presumable that in this case, only the Yellow Patch Cow would actually be released as a prize / to purchase in the store, and that you'd later receive the Calf by breeding the Cow in the Dairy Barn.
No matter how these animals are made available in the game, we'll make sure to give you complete details on how to add them to your farm as soon as we know more.
Which of these animals is your favorite? Is yellow your favorite springtime color, or would you prefer a pink or blue set of items instead?
FarmVille English Countryside Sneak Peek: Garden Cascade, Gentleman Gnome, English Treehouse & much more
A huge amount of English Countryside items will apparently be released in FarmVille in the very near future, if this newest batch of unreleased images is anything to go by. Hopefully, there will be something for ever budget, just as there is something for every taste.
We'll start from left to right in the image at the top of this post. Here's what we're expecting to be made available shortly: English Pavilion, Gentleman Gnome, English Treehouse, Garden Cascade, Rhododendron, Garden Tableset, Spring Quill Flowerbed, Flower Patch 2, Flower Patch 3, and Flower Patch 4.
While we can safely assume that all of these items will be released in the English Countryside limited edition theme, just how much they'll cost, or when exactly they'll be released is still up in the air (we're guessing these could start making an appearance as early as this weekend). Also, we don't know whether some of these items will be specific only to the English Farm, or if you'll be able to place them on your Home Farm as well.
We'll bring you all of that info and more when these items are officially released, so keep checking back.
Check out the rest of our English Countryside coverage right here.
Which of these many decorative items is your favorite? Will you purchase any items for both of your farms, if given the choice?
We'll start from left to right in the image at the top of this post. Here's what we're expecting to be made available shortly: English Pavilion, Gentleman Gnome, English Treehouse, Garden Cascade, Rhododendron, Garden Tableset, Spring Quill Flowerbed, Flower Patch 2, Flower Patch 3, and Flower Patch 4.
While we can safely assume that all of these items will be released in the English Countryside limited edition theme, just how much they'll cost, or when exactly they'll be released is still up in the air (we're guessing these could start making an appearance as early as this weekend). Also, we don't know whether some of these items will be specific only to the English Farm, or if you'll be able to place them on your Home Farm as well.
We'll bring you all of that info and more when these items are officially released, so keep checking back.
Check out the rest of our English Countryside coverage right here.
Which of these many decorative items is your favorite? Will you purchase any items for both of your farms, if given the choice?
FarmVille Animal Sneak Peek: Red Kite, Red Deer, Baby Blue Tiger & More
A slew of new animals will be coming to FarmVille in the near future (perhaps as early as this weekend), or so we assume thanks to a new set of unreleased images.
These animals look to be coming in either this week's Mystery Game (which will release on Sunday night), or as general releases available to purchase in the game's store. From left to right in the image above we have the Dartmoor Pony, Dartmoor Foal, Blue Baby Tiger, Red Deer, Red Wolf Cub, Blue Arrow Frog, and Red Kite.
The Dartmoor Pony, if any of these animals, is the most likely to be released in the store, as items like the Red Kite and Red Deer seem much more suited to a Mystery Game, while horses and ponies are routinely released in the store. As for the Red Kite itself, this will likely be a decorative only animal, not actually able to be fed. Still, it will look pretty cool on your farm.
We'll make sure to let you know how to add any of these animals to your farm, along with whether or not any of them are relegated to the English Countryside theme, so keep checking back.
What do you think of these new animals? Would you play next week's Mystery Game to earn any of them?
These animals look to be coming in either this week's Mystery Game (which will release on Sunday night), or as general releases available to purchase in the game's store. From left to right in the image above we have the Dartmoor Pony, Dartmoor Foal, Blue Baby Tiger, Red Deer, Red Wolf Cub, Blue Arrow Frog, and Red Kite.
The Dartmoor Pony, if any of these animals, is the most likely to be released in the store, as items like the Red Kite and Red Deer seem much more suited to a Mystery Game, while horses and ponies are routinely released in the store. As for the Red Kite itself, this will likely be a decorative only animal, not actually able to be fed. Still, it will look pretty cool on your farm.
We'll make sure to let you know how to add any of these animals to your farm, along with whether or not any of them are relegated to the English Countryside theme, so keep checking back.
What do you think of these new animals? Would you play next week's Mystery Game to earn any of them?
FrontierVille: Send your friends Strange Packages for April Fools' Day
FrontierVille is celebrating April Fools' Day today with the release of Strange Packages, which can be sent to your friends via the game's free gifts page. These Strange Packages look like ordinary Care Packages, and can be used from your inventory in the same way once you accept them from your friends.
But what do you receive inside? Watch out, because when you open one of these boxes, you just might receive a big pile of Flaming Poo! Of course, this is all just a funny decoration being released in honor of April Fools' Day, but if you would like to place it behind one of your larger animals, it would look pretty funny, I have to admit. You'll also receive a few coins and experience points for each of these Packages you open. Note: The Strange Package shows up a few pages into your inventory, so make sure to continue to scroll, if you don't see them placed right next to your regular Care Packages.
Make sure to send your friends these Strange Packages, and ask for some in return, before the "holiday" ends, as we don't know how long they'll be available.
But what do you receive inside? Watch out, because when you open one of these boxes, you just might receive a big pile of Flaming Poo! Of course, this is all just a funny decoration being released in honor of April Fools' Day, but if you would like to place it behind one of your larger animals, it would look pretty funny, I have to admit. You'll also receive a few coins and experience points for each of these Packages you open. Note: The Strange Package shows up a few pages into your inventory, so make sure to continue to scroll, if you don't see them placed right next to your regular Care Packages.
Make sure to send your friends these Strange Packages, and ask for some in return, before the "holiday" ends, as we don't know how long they'll be available.
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