SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Activision Blizzard Inc has settled a lawsuit with two former executives over payment and royalties for developing top titles such as 'Call of Duty,' the company said on Thursday.
The video game publisher did not divulge any details of the settlement and said the terms were confidential.
Activision fired Jason West and Vincent Zampella in March, 2010. The men had led the Infinity Ward studio - developer the original 'Call of Duty' game and several others in the series - which was acquired by Activision in 2003.
After leaving Activision, West and Zampella formed a new development studio, Respawn Entertainment, and signed an exclusive publishing and distribution deal with Activision's arch rival, Electronic Arts Inc.
West and Zampella also sued Activision over their dismissal and sought $36 million in royalty payments and damages. Activision counter-sued, seeking $400 million in actual and punitive damages from EA and the former executives.
Two weeks ago, Activision settled its suit against Electronic Arts in which it accused the former executives of breaking their employment agreements not to develop games for other publishers. The suit between Activision and its former executives was settled before it was supposed to be taken up in a Los Angeles state court on Friday.
Activision executives declined to comment. Bobby Schwartz, an attorney for the former Activision executives, also declined to comment.
'Activision's refusal to pay their talent and attempt to blame EA were absurd. This settlement is a vindication of Vince and Jason and the right of creative artists to collect the rewards due for their hard work,' EA said in a statement.
The case in Superior Court of the State of California, Los Angeles County is Jason West v Activision Publishing, No. SC107041.
(Reporting By Malathi Nayak; editing by Andre Grenon)
This news article is brought to you by SOUPS SOPHISTICATED DISH - where latest news are our top priority.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Zynga shares rise slightly after bruising decline
LOS ANGELES (AP) - Shares of online game maker Zynga Inc. moved higher Thursday after an analyst upgraded the online game maker's stock. He said the company's risks are now reflected in the stock price, which has dropped sharply since early March.
THE SPARK: Baird analyst Colin Sebastian upgraded his rating on Zynga shares to 'Outperform' from 'Neutral,' saying that the shares have borne the brunt of negative feelings associated with Facebook Inc.'s rocky initial public stock offering.
THE BIG PICTURE: Zynga earns revenue from games such as 'FarmVille' and 'Mafia Wars.' Most of its games are played on Facebook - Sebastian estimates that 90 percent of Zynga revenues come from Facebook games. That means Zynga has to share its revenue with Facebook for purchases that people make as they play Zynga games on the social network.
The company is trying to get people also to play on its website, Zynga.com, where it can keep all the revenue.
THE ANALYSIS: Fears of slowing growth in social games and worries that employees would dump their shares once they're allowed to sell have now been factored into current prices, he said.
After an IPO, there's typically a 'lock-up period,' when early investors and employees can't sell their stakes. Zynga, which went public in December, has staggered the dates at which early investors are allowed to unload their shares.
Going forward, Zynga shares could benefit from the announcement of a new game slate in July or August, stronger advertising revenues, expanding onto mobile and other platforms, and the possible move into real-money and sports games, Sebastian said.
He maintained his $13 price target on the shares.
SHARE ACTION: Zynga shares rose 14 cents, or 2.4 percent, at $6.01 in Thursday afternoon trading. Shares had dropped 30 percent in May alone, and were off 63 percent from their peak of $15.91 in March. Zynga sold stock for $10 in its December IPO.
Shares of Facebook, which went public two weeks ago, have lost more than a quarter of their value from the $38 IPO price. The stock dropped another $1.13, or 4 percent, to $27.06 Thursday.
This news article is brought to you by MOBILE-CELL-PHONE - where latest news are our top priority.
THE SPARK: Baird analyst Colin Sebastian upgraded his rating on Zynga shares to 'Outperform' from 'Neutral,' saying that the shares have borne the brunt of negative feelings associated with Facebook Inc.'s rocky initial public stock offering.
THE BIG PICTURE: Zynga earns revenue from games such as 'FarmVille' and 'Mafia Wars.' Most of its games are played on Facebook - Sebastian estimates that 90 percent of Zynga revenues come from Facebook games. That means Zynga has to share its revenue with Facebook for purchases that people make as they play Zynga games on the social network.
The company is trying to get people also to play on its website, Zynga.com, where it can keep all the revenue.
THE ANALYSIS: Fears of slowing growth in social games and worries that employees would dump their shares once they're allowed to sell have now been factored into current prices, he said.
After an IPO, there's typically a 'lock-up period,' when early investors and employees can't sell their stakes. Zynga, which went public in December, has staggered the dates at which early investors are allowed to unload their shares.
Going forward, Zynga shares could benefit from the announcement of a new game slate in July or August, stronger advertising revenues, expanding onto mobile and other platforms, and the possible move into real-money and sports games, Sebastian said.
He maintained his $13 price target on the shares.
SHARE ACTION: Zynga shares rose 14 cents, or 2.4 percent, at $6.01 in Thursday afternoon trading. Shares had dropped 30 percent in May alone, and were off 63 percent from their peak of $15.91 in March. Zynga sold stock for $10 in its December IPO.
Shares of Facebook, which went public two weeks ago, have lost more than a quarter of their value from the $38 IPO price. The stock dropped another $1.13, or 4 percent, to $27.06 Thursday.
This news article is brought to you by MOBILE-CELL-PHONE - where latest news are our top priority.
Baird raises Zynga to outperform
(Reuters) - Robert W. Baird raised Zynga Inc to 'outperform' from 'neutral,' saying the social gaming company will benefit from the launch of new games this summer and its expansion into mobile devices.
'This summer, we believe that Zynga will announce a new game slate, including 'mid-core' titles that should appeal to a broader audience of gamers, as well as sequels to existing franchises, such as Farmville,' analyst Colin Sebastian wrote in a research report.
Facebook Inc's recent shift in focus towards mobile platforms should also allow Zynga to gain traction on smart devices and it can also benefit from its expertise in social and free-to-play games, analyst Sebastian said.
Zynga shares have lost more than half of their market value in the last three months on concerns of slowing growth in social games and usage declines in key game franchises.
Zynga, which went public in December, owns the popular Farmville and Cityville games and depends on the Facebook platform to earn almost all of its revenue. Zynga's heavy dependence on Facebook has been a constant worry for investors.
The stock got hammered after Facebook went public in a disappointing debut early this month.
'While Zynga's dependence on Facebook is a cause for some concern amid slowing growth in social games, we believe Zynga's relationship with Facebook still provides a unique competitive advantage,' Sebastian said.
He said the headwinds were largely priced into Zynga's shares.
Zynga shares rose 3 percent to $6.06 in early trading on Thursday on the Nasdaq.
(Reporting by Supantha Mukherjee in Bangalore; Editing by Maju Samuel)
This news article is brought to you by SINGLES - where latest news are our top priority.
'This summer, we believe that Zynga will announce a new game slate, including 'mid-core' titles that should appeal to a broader audience of gamers, as well as sequels to existing franchises, such as Farmville,' analyst Colin Sebastian wrote in a research report.
Facebook Inc's recent shift in focus towards mobile platforms should also allow Zynga to gain traction on smart devices and it can also benefit from its expertise in social and free-to-play games, analyst Sebastian said.
Zynga shares have lost more than half of their market value in the last three months on concerns of slowing growth in social games and usage declines in key game franchises.
Zynga, which went public in December, owns the popular Farmville and Cityville games and depends on the Facebook platform to earn almost all of its revenue. Zynga's heavy dependence on Facebook has been a constant worry for investors.
The stock got hammered after Facebook went public in a disappointing debut early this month.
'While Zynga's dependence on Facebook is a cause for some concern amid slowing growth in social games, we believe Zynga's relationship with Facebook still provides a unique competitive advantage,' Sebastian said.
He said the headwinds were largely priced into Zynga's shares.
Zynga shares rose 3 percent to $6.06 in early trading on Thursday on the Nasdaq.
(Reporting by Supantha Mukherjee in Bangalore; Editing by Maju Samuel)
This news article is brought to you by SINGLES - where latest news are our top priority.
Angry Birds Space Gets Updated With 10 New Levels
Rovio has updated Angry Birds Space for iOS with a new, food-themed planet that brings 10 new levels for your enjoyment. The food planet of Utopia is filled with popcorn, cookies and candy apples. It also gives you the ability to launch your cranky feathery creatures off jelly trampolines and put those cowardly pigs to their place.
[More from Mashable: Can Your Mobile Apps Be Trusted? [INFOGRAPHIC]]
The update brings additional value to customers who paid $0.99 for the game, and it comes just one month after the last update, which also brought ten new levels.
You can get the iPhone version of the game here, while the iPad version is here.
[More from Mashable: Google+ Local Unlocks the Power of Zagat]
How do you like the new Angry Birds Space planet? Share your experiences in the comments!
This story originally published on Mashable here.
This article is brought to you by AFFORDABLE COMPUTERS.
[More from Mashable: Can Your Mobile Apps Be Trusted? [INFOGRAPHIC]]
The update brings additional value to customers who paid $0.99 for the game, and it comes just one month after the last update, which also brought ten new levels.
You can get the iPhone version of the game here, while the iPad version is here.
[More from Mashable: Google+ Local Unlocks the Power of Zagat]
How do you like the new Angry Birds Space planet? Share your experiences in the comments!
This story originally published on Mashable here.
This article is brought to you by AFFORDABLE COMPUTERS.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Microsoft sells over 67 million Xbox 360s, 19 million Kinects
Yusuf Mehdi, the CMO of Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Division, announced on Tuesday that more than 67 million Xbox 360s have been sold since the console launched in 2005, and it has generated more than $56 billion in sales. The motion sensing input accessory, Kinect, has sold more than 19 million units and the company's Xbox Live service now boast 40 million members. Xbox users are spending more time on the system and are averaging 84 hours of usage each month. Mehdi also revealed that Microsoft holds a 47% market share of the current-generation console market, however he did note that sales, while continuing to increase year-over-year, are slowing down.
Read
Read
Related stories
This news article is brought to you by HUNTING - where latest news are our top priority.
This news article is brought to you by HUNTING - where latest news are our top priority.
Amazon Video on Demand Could Erase Netflix from XBox Consoles
COMMENTARY | Video streaming options seem to be popping up faster than new video games. Mashable is reporting that Amazon Video on Demand is now available on the Xbox 360 gaming console, which gives consumers yet another competitor looking to offer downloadable or streamable movies and television shows. Amazon's entrance into the Xbox world allows it to join video streaming staples Hulu Plus, Netflix, and Vudu on the gaming console, and those competitors should be worried about VOD becoming available.
Of course, Amazon Video on Demand has a slightly different pricing structure than its immediate competitors. While Amazon offers the traditional pay-per-episode or film structure, which is similar to Vudu, Amazon Prime offers users access to a large catalog for a one-time payment of $79, according to the AFP. Sure the Xbox is getting a bit crowded when it comes to video apps, but giving users options is never a bad idea.
The funny thing about the Amazon Video on Demand business model is that it has that pay-per-view aspect that movie studios favor, according to CNET.com, and with Amazon Prime the service offers up a host of titles cheaper than the cost of a basic Netflix or Hulu Plus subscription. The only thing missing is the Disc-to-Digital program that Wal-Mart and UltraViolet are teaming up and delivering over Vudu.
Netflix might have a much larger catalog than Amazon Prime, but many television shows are available on both platforms, and the same can be said for Hulu Plus. However, only Amazon offers up the ability to sprinkle in newer movies without leaving the service. If the Internet retailing giant can get the studios to throw a couple of exclusives its way, Netflix and Hulu could be in big trouble very quickly, especially when consumers figure out that Netflix and Hulu Plus cost around $96 per year to Prime's $79 per year cost. The Xbox 360 could be the tip of the iceberg for Amazon as far as devices are concerned.
This news article is brought to you by FISHING - where latest news are our top priority.
Zynga May Talk About Leaving, But It's Still Playing Games With Facebook
It's tantalizing to tease a split between Zynga and Facebook, but based on the game-maker's and the social network's intense codependence, that's probably not happening any time soon.
RELATED: Zynga's $1 Billion IPO Will Serve as Facebook's Opening Act
A report in The Wall Street Journal that suggeats Zynga's CEO Mark Pincus made "Hints at Facebook Independence" makes it sound like Pincus is getting ready to sever the game-maker's relationship with Facebook, which serves as a major platform for its addictive "stupid games" like Farmville and Draw Something. But as the story makes clear, Zynga probably isn't going anywhere. (It's worth noting that Zynga already has a standalone site.)
RELATED: Games in Google+ Should Scare Facebook
According to the WSJ, the company brought in 92 percent of its revenue from Facebook in March. Compare that with the 12 percent of Facebook's revenue that Zynga provides (per Facebook's IPO documents), and the slant of the relationship becomes pretty clear: Zynga needs Facebook a lot more than Facebook needs Zynga. Still, it can't hurt Pincus to start planning some options for Zynga to operate independent of the mothership, as his comments Wednesday at the D: All Things Digital conference made clear he was doing. "There's nothing stopping us from putting games in all kinds of places, as we find opportunities," he said. "We're just seeing Android and iOS having the potential to be there," he said, speaking of alternative platforms for Zynga's games. That kind of language does sound a little like pre-breakup talk, but Zynga just can't afford to move out all on its own just yet.
This news article is brought to you by GARAGE STORAGE IDEAS - where latest news are our top priority.
RELATED: Zynga's $1 Billion IPO Will Serve as Facebook's Opening Act
A report in The Wall Street Journal that suggeats Zynga's CEO Mark Pincus made "Hints at Facebook Independence" makes it sound like Pincus is getting ready to sever the game-maker's relationship with Facebook, which serves as a major platform for its addictive "stupid games" like Farmville and Draw Something. But as the story makes clear, Zynga probably isn't going anywhere. (It's worth noting that Zynga already has a standalone site.)
RELATED: Games in Google+ Should Scare Facebook
According to the WSJ, the company brought in 92 percent of its revenue from Facebook in March. Compare that with the 12 percent of Facebook's revenue that Zynga provides (per Facebook's IPO documents), and the slant of the relationship becomes pretty clear: Zynga needs Facebook a lot more than Facebook needs Zynga. Still, it can't hurt Pincus to start planning some options for Zynga to operate independent of the mothership, as his comments Wednesday at the D: All Things Digital conference made clear he was doing. "There's nothing stopping us from putting games in all kinds of places, as we find opportunities," he said. "We're just seeing Android and iOS having the potential to be there," he said, speaking of alternative platforms for Zynga's games. That kind of language does sound a little like pre-breakup talk, but Zynga just can't afford to move out all on its own just yet.
This news article is brought to you by GARAGE STORAGE IDEAS - where latest news are our top priority.
Video game simulation predicts Los Angeles win in six games over Devils
NEWARK, N.J. - EA Sports predicts the Los Angeles Kings will defeat the New Jersey Devils in six games to win the Stanley Cup,.
That's the word from the NHL 12 simulation engine, the video game developer said.
In the simulation, Kings goalie Jonathan Quick continued his stellar post-season play. The 26-year-old records a shutout and does not allow more than two goals in a game against the Devils en route to collecting the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.
The simulation has Los Angeles winning Game 1 by a 4-2 score before losing the next two 2-0 and 2-1. The Kings close it out with 2-0, 3-2 and 3-1 wins.
Kings defenceman Drew Doughty scores the winning goal in the final game.
The EA hockey game is developed in Burnaby, B.C.
This article is brought to you by BUY COMPUTERS.
That's the word from the NHL 12 simulation engine, the video game developer said.
In the simulation, Kings goalie Jonathan Quick continued his stellar post-season play. The 26-year-old records a shutout and does not allow more than two goals in a game against the Devils en route to collecting the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.
The simulation has Los Angeles winning Game 1 by a 4-2 score before losing the next two 2-0 and 2-1. The Kings close it out with 2-0, 3-2 and 3-1 wins.
Kings defenceman Drew Doughty scores the winning goal in the final game.
The EA hockey game is developed in Burnaby, B.C.
This article is brought to you by BUY COMPUTERS.
Xbox 360 gets Amazon Instant Video
Amazon announced on Tuesday that its Prime Instant Video service and access to "Your Video Library" is now available to Xbox Live Gold subscribers. The streaming service, which is available as a part of Amazon Prime for $79 a year and offers customers free two-day shipping, features more than 17,000 movies and TV episodes, including hundreds of Paramount films. "Working with Amazon.com marks a significant milestone in our mission to make the entertainment you love more amazing on Xbox," said Ross Honey, general manager of Xbox LIVE Entertainment and Advertising, Microsoft Corp. "By bringing the Amazon Instant Video app to Xbox LIVE and adding voice search and voice control through the magic of Kinect, we're transforming the way people discover and experience entertainment." Amazon's press release can be found after the break.
Amazon Instant Video Now Available on Xbox 360, with Access to 'Your Video Library' and Prime Instant Video
Customers can now watch the latest movies and TV episodes on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and use Kinect for Xbox 360 to find and play videos with the wave of a hand or sound of their voice
Prime members can instantly stream more than 17,000 movies and TV episodes to their Xbox 360 console with shows such as 24, Downton Abbey and Chappelle Show, and movies like Mission Impossible 3 and Forrest Gump
SEATTLE-(BUSINESS WIRE)-May. 29, 2012- (NASDAQ: AMZN) - Amazon.com, Inc. and Microsoft Corp. today introduced a new Amazon Instant Video app for Xbox LIVE Gold subscribers that gives customers access to movies and TV episodes on their Xbox 360 console. The app also offers access to Prime Instant Video, a service with more than 17,000 movies and TV episodes available to Prime members at no additional cost. Customers who are Xbox LIVE Gold subscribers can find the free Amazon Instant Video app in the Xbox LIVE Marketplace for Xbox 360. For more information on how to watch those videos on Xbox 360 visit, http://amazon.com/instantvideo/xbox.
"Amazon Instant Video on the Xbox 360 console is among one of the most requested video features from our customers, so we are excited to offer yet another way for customers to enjoy Amazon Instant Video," said Anthony Bay, Amazon.com vice president for video. "With Amazon Instant Video on Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE Gold members can start enjoying new release movies, current TV episodes and Prime Instant Video right away. Our integration with Kinect for Xbox 360 lets customers play and search for videos with the wave of a hand or the sound of their voice, and our Whispersync technology allows customers to seamlessly switch between watching on their Kindle Fire and their Xbox 360 console, without losing their place. Also, Watchlist is a great new feature that lets customers keep a running queue of videos they want to see in the future."
"Working with Amazon.com marks a significant milestone in our mission to make the entertainment you love more amazing on Xbox," said Ross Honey, general manager of Xbox LIVE Entertainment and Advertising, Microsoft Corp. "By bringing the Amazon Instant Video app to Xbox LIVE and adding voice search and voice control through the magic of Kinect, we're transforming the way people discover and experience entertainment."
Customers can visit the Amazon Website to shop for any of the more than 120,000 movies and TV episodes. Purchased or rented movies and TV episodes appear automatically in Your Video Library on the Amazon Instant Video app for Xbox 360. Amazon Instant Video offers the latest hit movies like Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol, We Bought a Zoo, and The Grey, and popular TV shows Mad Men, Fringe, Vampire Diaries and Once Upon A Time.
Prime Instant Video includes hit TV shows like Glee, Downton Abbey and Sons of Anarchy and classic movies such as Office Space, The Graduate and Brokeback Mountain. In addition to receiving free two-day shipping on millions of items and access to thousands of books from the Kindle Owners' Lending Library, Prime members can instantly stream more than 17,000 TV episodes and movies, all for just $79 a year. If you are not a Prime member you can start a free one-month trial today.
The new Amazon Instant Video app for Xbox 360 includes:
- The ability to browse and play videos with the Xbox 360 remote control or Kinect voice and gesture commands.
- Instant streaming of thousands of high-definition movies and TV episodes that start and resume in just seconds.
- Watchlist for Amazon Instant Video - allows customers to create a list of things they want to watch, and find those movies and TV episodes easily.
- Whispersync - lets customers seamlessly switch from one device to another. Customers can start streaming a movie on Kindle Fire, then pick up right where they left off on their Xbox 360 console and avoid the frustration of having to find their spot.
- Your Video Library - customers can access their purchases from Amazon Instant Video on the Xbox 360 or any of the hundreds of other devices enabled for Amazon Instant Video. For a list of compatible devices click here.
Related stories
This news article is brought to you by WOMEN'S BLOG - where latest news are our top priority.
This news article is brought to you by WOMEN'S BLOG - where latest news are our top priority.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Amazon streams video to Xbox 360 consoles
Online retail powerhouse Amazon.com announced a collaboration with Microsoft to begin streaming films and television shows to Xbox 360 videogame consoles.
An 'app' was made available for free download to let people with subscriptions to Xbox Live Gold view Amazon Prime video using Microsoft's popular videogame consoles linked to Internet.
'Amazon Instant Video on the Xbox 360 console is among one of the most requested video features from our customers,' said Amazon.com vice president for video Anthony Bay.
The Instant Video application for Xbox synchs with Kinect accessories to let users peruse and select content by speaking or gesturing, according to Bay.
Amazon technology also lets people switch between watching shows or films on Kindle Fire tablets and Xbox consoles without losing continuity.
'Working with Amazon.com marks a significant milestone in our mission to make the entertainment you love more amazing on Xbox,' said Xbox Live entertainment and advertising general manager Ross Honey.
'By bringing the Amazon Instant Video app to Xbox Live and adding voice search and voice control through the magic of Kinect, we're transforming the way people discover and experience entertainment.'
Prime and Xbox Live Gold are both premium services, but there is no added charge for watching video on the videogame consoles, according to the companies.
Prime Instant Video boasts a vast library of movies and television shows including 'Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol' and 'Mad Men.'
Xbox Live offers its own video rentals as well as applications for viewing content from online streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu.
The Amazon Instant Video application was available in the Xbox Live Marketplace. More information was available online at amazon.com/instantvideo/xbox.
Annual subscriptions to Amazon Prime cost $79 while Microsoft has a variety of Xbox Live Gold accounts starting about $60 annually, according to the companies' websites.
This article is brought to you by BUY AFFORDABLE COMPUTERS.
An 'app' was made available for free download to let people with subscriptions to Xbox Live Gold view Amazon Prime video using Microsoft's popular videogame consoles linked to Internet.
'Amazon Instant Video on the Xbox 360 console is among one of the most requested video features from our customers,' said Amazon.com vice president for video Anthony Bay.
The Instant Video application for Xbox synchs with Kinect accessories to let users peruse and select content by speaking or gesturing, according to Bay.
Amazon technology also lets people switch between watching shows or films on Kindle Fire tablets and Xbox consoles without losing continuity.
'Working with Amazon.com marks a significant milestone in our mission to make the entertainment you love more amazing on Xbox,' said Xbox Live entertainment and advertising general manager Ross Honey.
'By bringing the Amazon Instant Video app to Xbox Live and adding voice search and voice control through the magic of Kinect, we're transforming the way people discover and experience entertainment.'
Prime and Xbox Live Gold are both premium services, but there is no added charge for watching video on the videogame consoles, according to the companies.
Prime Instant Video boasts a vast library of movies and television shows including 'Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol' and 'Mad Men.'
Xbox Live offers its own video rentals as well as applications for viewing content from online streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu.
The Amazon Instant Video application was available in the Xbox Live Marketplace. More information was available online at amazon.com/instantvideo/xbox.
Annual subscriptions to Amazon Prime cost $79 while Microsoft has a variety of Xbox Live Gold accounts starting about $60 annually, according to the companies' websites.
This article is brought to you by BUY AFFORDABLE COMPUTERS.
Angry Birds debit cards to be issued in Russia
MOSCOW (AP) - Russian fans of the videogame Angry Birds will soon be able to get special debit cards - or 'Angry Cards' - giving them discounts on the game's products.
Moscow-based Promsvyazbank said Tuesday it will start issuing the new MasterCards on June 4. They will be printed with images of the various characters and will give users a 10 percent discount on all Angry Birds-branded products.
Besides debit cards, the bank will also issue Angry Bird cash cards, which users top up with money. The bank will pay a 4 percent annual interest rate on the card's balance.
The maker of Angry Birds, Rovio Entertainment, has already launched toys and baby clothes lines featuring Angry Birds characters. But the Russian debit card is going to be the first Angry Birds branded financial product. The videogame has been downloaded more than 10 million times in Russia.
Ivan Pyatkov, director for retail sales and technology at Promsvyazbank, told the Associated Press that the bank is planning an initial printing of 50,000 cards but hopes to issue twice as much by the end of the year.
The bank expects the card to help attract urbanites between 25 and 35 years of age with a monthly income of at least $1,000.
Pyatkov said the bank is receiving a large number of requests for Angry Birds cards following early reports in the Russian press.
'Some clients are demanding their Angry Birds cards right now - before the official launch,' Pyatkov said.
Promsvyazbank will be launching the card in partnership with Internet Retail Solutions, Rovio's agent in Russia.
Promsvyazbank, ranked as Russia's 11th largest by the Interfax research center, is 74 percent-owned by two Russian tycoons, the Ananyev brothers. Commerzbank holds 14 percent in the lender via a subsidiary while the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has a 12 percent stake.
This article is brought to you by BUY CHEAP COMPUTERS.
Moscow-based Promsvyazbank said Tuesday it will start issuing the new MasterCards on June 4. They will be printed with images of the various characters and will give users a 10 percent discount on all Angry Birds-branded products.
Besides debit cards, the bank will also issue Angry Bird cash cards, which users top up with money. The bank will pay a 4 percent annual interest rate on the card's balance.
The maker of Angry Birds, Rovio Entertainment, has already launched toys and baby clothes lines featuring Angry Birds characters. But the Russian debit card is going to be the first Angry Birds branded financial product. The videogame has been downloaded more than 10 million times in Russia.
Ivan Pyatkov, director for retail sales and technology at Promsvyazbank, told the Associated Press that the bank is planning an initial printing of 50,000 cards but hopes to issue twice as much by the end of the year.
The bank expects the card to help attract urbanites between 25 and 35 years of age with a monthly income of at least $1,000.
Pyatkov said the bank is receiving a large number of requests for Angry Birds cards following early reports in the Russian press.
'Some clients are demanding their Angry Birds cards right now - before the official launch,' Pyatkov said.
Promsvyazbank will be launching the card in partnership with Internet Retail Solutions, Rovio's agent in Russia.
Promsvyazbank, ranked as Russia's 11th largest by the Interfax research center, is 74 percent-owned by two Russian tycoons, the Ananyev brothers. Commerzbank holds 14 percent in the lender via a subsidiary while the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has a 12 percent stake.
This article is brought to you by BUY CHEAP COMPUTERS.
'Angry Birds' Credit Cards Coming Soon [REPORT]
[More from Mashable: 5 Tips to Maximize Your Brand's Facebook Reach]
The company is working with Internet Retail Solutions (Irsol) on branded MasterCard cards that will be available in that country on June 4, according to The Moscow News, which cites a report in RBK Daily. The cards will be the first Angry Birds branded product in Russia, according to the report.
The cards will initially be printed in a batch of 100,000, after which Irsol will determine if there's demand for another printing. There don't appear to be additional perks for using the card, an incentive that American Express recently introduced for some Zynga games.
[More from Mashable: Facebook Tells Brands the Percentage of Fans Who See Their Posts]
A move towards financial services comes after Rovio launched a very successful toy line based on Angry Birds and has dabbled in other categories, including baby clothes, to further the popular brand.
This story originally published on Mashable here.
This news article is brought to you by ARCHERY - where latest news are our top priority.
Google+ trends: Steve Jobs Atari memo, Sina enforces restrictive code of conduct
A memo written by Apple co-founder Steve Jobs while he was still working at Atari will be sold by auction house Sotheby's.
The document details Steve Jobs's instructions for converting PC boards on Atari's World Cup arcade game. The lot is expected to sell for between $10,000 to $15,000.
Chinese microblogging service Sina has started enforcing its new user contract, which prohibits its users from posting "national secrets," "calls for disruption of social order" or rumors. G+'ers say Sina's 'censorship system' hinders free speech.
Google+ users are still talking about Justin Bieber's run-in with the paparazzi. They are posting photos taken moments after the alleged incident and linking to news articles that suggest Justin Bieber 'physically battered' a photographer after he captured photos of the pop star and his girlfriend, Selena Gomez, on Sunday.
Google+'ers, many of whom are still enjoying the final hours of the Memorial Day holiday in the US, are posting funny photos, videos and animated GIFs in their feed along with the hashtag #Funny. Popular posts include a photo of a person trying to hitchhike with an axe, a photo of a chair-stealing cat, and an animated GIF of a dog knocking over a baby.
The top 5 most talked about topics on Google+ on May 29 at 7:30 AM GMT are:
This news article is brought to you by ECONOMY BLOG - where latest news are our top priority.
The document details Steve Jobs's instructions for converting PC boards on Atari's World Cup arcade game. The lot is expected to sell for between $10,000 to $15,000.
Chinese microblogging service Sina has started enforcing its new user contract, which prohibits its users from posting "national secrets," "calls for disruption of social order" or rumors. G+'ers say Sina's 'censorship system' hinders free speech.
Google+ users are still talking about Justin Bieber's run-in with the paparazzi. They are posting photos taken moments after the alleged incident and linking to news articles that suggest Justin Bieber 'physically battered' a photographer after he captured photos of the pop star and his girlfriend, Selena Gomez, on Sunday.
Google+'ers, many of whom are still enjoying the final hours of the Memorial Day holiday in the US, are posting funny photos, videos and animated GIFs in their feed along with the hashtag #Funny. Popular posts include a photo of a person trying to hitchhike with an axe, a photo of a chair-stealing cat, and an animated GIF of a dog knocking over a baby.
The top 5 most talked about topics on Google+ on May 29 at 7:30 AM GMT are:
This news article is brought to you by ECONOMY BLOG - where latest news are our top priority.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Can These Video Games Help You Make Better Life Choices?
The World at Work is powered by GE. This new series highlights the people, projects and startups that are driving innovation and making the world a better place. Name: WILL Interactive
[More from Mashable: Top 10 GIFs of the Week]
Big Idea: WILL Interactive develops Virtual Experience Immersive Learning Simulations (VEILS), which are interactive movies that force users to make serious decisions as a learning experience.
Why It's Working: With more than 70 games on topics including the military, financial decision-making and youth education, WILL Interactive has developed a new form of educational and therapeutic media.
[More from Mashable: Kodak Image Sharing and Storage is Dead: 5 Alternatives]
Walk in the shoes of a soldier on the battlefield or learn how to avoid foreclosure in a precarious housing market -- if you make a mistake, simply start the game over.
WILL Interactive has found a way to encourage game players to solve real-world problems using interactive role-playing games.
WILL has created more than 70 'serious games.' That term, the site explains, 'means games that are designed for a primary purpose other than pure entertainment. Higher end serious games are designed to inherently engage their target audience through the use of interactive gaming attributes, which, in turn, ultimately educates them on how to solve a specific problem, task or objective.'
The company patented its signature medium, Virtual Experience Immersive Learning Simulation (VEILS), in 1998. VEILS enables players to take on the identities of characters in a movie, and each of the characters' actions result in a different reaction and outcome for the player. This idea evolved into serious games for social good.
One of these games is Ways Home, an interactive game developed in cooperation with Fannie Mae that guides users through various scenarios and teaches them how to avoid foreclosure. Another is Leading the Way, developed with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs -- the game helps returning soldiers prepare to navigate the worst-case scenarios of re-entering civilian working life.
The company's website states that WILL is the only entity that 'holds the patent for the interactive behavior modification process that has been shown in independent studies to improve individual's knowledge, attitudes and behaviors.'
The company recently launched the WILL Interactive Challenge, asking players to solve a real-world problem using the game's interactive technology. In the competition, which began on December 14, 2011 and ended April 20, 2012, contestants were asked to create a proposal detailing a virtual experience that could impact the real world in a positive way. The winner will be announced on June 6 and will be awarded $500,000 to develop the idea using WILL's technology. If the idea is commercialized, the winner will receive royalties and co-branding recognition on the simulation.
What real-world problem would you like to see solved using serious games? Tell us in the comments.
Series presented by GE
The World at Work is powered by GE. GE Works focuses on the people who make the things that move, power, build and help to cure the world.
This story originally published on Mashable here.
This news article is brought to you by SELF-ESTEEM - where latest news are our top priority.
[More from Mashable: Top 10 GIFs of the Week]
Big Idea: WILL Interactive develops Virtual Experience Immersive Learning Simulations (VEILS), which are interactive movies that force users to make serious decisions as a learning experience.
Why It's Working: With more than 70 games on topics including the military, financial decision-making and youth education, WILL Interactive has developed a new form of educational and therapeutic media.
[More from Mashable: Kodak Image Sharing and Storage is Dead: 5 Alternatives]
Walk in the shoes of a soldier on the battlefield or learn how to avoid foreclosure in a precarious housing market -- if you make a mistake, simply start the game over.
WILL Interactive has found a way to encourage game players to solve real-world problems using interactive role-playing games.
WILL has created more than 70 'serious games.' That term, the site explains, 'means games that are designed for a primary purpose other than pure entertainment. Higher end serious games are designed to inherently engage their target audience through the use of interactive gaming attributes, which, in turn, ultimately educates them on how to solve a specific problem, task or objective.'
The company patented its signature medium, Virtual Experience Immersive Learning Simulation (VEILS), in 1998. VEILS enables players to take on the identities of characters in a movie, and each of the characters' actions result in a different reaction and outcome for the player. This idea evolved into serious games for social good.
One of these games is Ways Home, an interactive game developed in cooperation with Fannie Mae that guides users through various scenarios and teaches them how to avoid foreclosure. Another is Leading the Way, developed with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs -- the game helps returning soldiers prepare to navigate the worst-case scenarios of re-entering civilian working life.
The company's website states that WILL is the only entity that 'holds the patent for the interactive behavior modification process that has been shown in independent studies to improve individual's knowledge, attitudes and behaviors.'
The company recently launched the WILL Interactive Challenge, asking players to solve a real-world problem using the game's interactive technology. In the competition, which began on December 14, 2011 and ended April 20, 2012, contestants were asked to create a proposal detailing a virtual experience that could impact the real world in a positive way. The winner will be announced on June 6 and will be awarded $500,000 to develop the idea using WILL's technology. If the idea is commercialized, the winner will receive royalties and co-branding recognition on the simulation.
What real-world problem would you like to see solved using serious games? Tell us in the comments.
Series presented by GE
The World at Work is powered by GE. GE Works focuses on the people who make the things that move, power, build and help to cure the world.
This story originally published on Mashable here.
This news article is brought to you by SELF-ESTEEM - where latest news are our top priority.
Friday, May 25, 2012
Upcoming video game releases: 'Resistance' on Vita, 'Atelier Meruru'
The PlayStation Vita gets its first first-person-shooter in Resistance: Burning Skies, Japanese role player Atelier Meruru arrives in North America and the UK, and Batman's back with a catch-all Game of the Year edition of Arkham City.
Atelier Meruru: The Apprentice of Arland (PS3)
North America: May 29, rated Teen
UK: May 25, 16+
Japan: June 2011, B (12+)
Series finale for Atelier's Arland trilogy and very highly rated upon release in Japan. Novice alchemist Meruru learns her trade and builds up the kingdom with a little help from her friends.
Price: $49 / £39 / ¥7,140
nisamerica.com/games/atelier-meruru
Resistance: Burning Skies (Vita)
North America: May 29, M17+
European regions: from May 30, 16+
Japan: July 12, C (15+)
The Resistance series's alien hordes are invading America and this time it's an NYC firefighter at the forefront of the action. Singleplayer story is complemented by an 8-person multiplayer mode.
Price: $39 / ?49 / £39 / R499 / ¥4,980
Batman: Arkham City Game of the Year Ed. (360 PS3)
North America: May 29, Teen
European regions: September 7, 16+
The Dark Knight stamps out crime in Arkham's prison city, teaming up with Catwoman and Robin on the way. The Game of the Year Edition includes new expansion Harley Quinn's Revenge as well as all five previously released content packs.
Price: $49.99
batmanarkhamcity.com
The Binding of Isaac: Wrath of the Lamb (Mac WinPC)
International: May 28
Ed McMillen's allegorical tale of emotional hardship, escapism, and random dungeon layouts is augmented by this five chapter excursion that adds new items, enemies, rooms, and endings. Plus more secrets.
Price: $3 or equivalent, via Steam Network.
store.steampowered.com/app/113200
Inversion (360 PS3)
North America: June 5, M17+
Europe: June 8, 18+
A Gears of War-style cover shooter given a twist as players mess with gravity. Aliens invade, screw up natural physics, and so a policeman and his neighbor set off to sort things out.
Price: $59 / ?39 / £29 / R599
namcobandaigames.com/console/inversion
The Sims 3: Katy Perry Sweet Treats (Mac PC) North America: June 5, Teen
European regions: June 8, 12+
Poptastic endorsement of the Sims series continues as Katy introduces Candyfornia's confectionary-themed dresses, hairstyles, furniture, and a Simlish lanugage version of her song 'Last Friday Night.'
Price: $29 / ?29 / £25 / R199
thesims3.com
This article is brought to you by COMPUTERS.
Atelier Meruru: The Apprentice of Arland (PS3)
North America: May 29, rated Teen
UK: May 25, 16+
Japan: June 2011, B (12+)
Series finale for Atelier's Arland trilogy and very highly rated upon release in Japan. Novice alchemist Meruru learns her trade and builds up the kingdom with a little help from her friends.
Price: $49 / £39 / ¥7,140
nisamerica.com/games/atelier-meruru
Resistance: Burning Skies (Vita)
North America: May 29, M17+
European regions: from May 30, 16+
Japan: July 12, C (15+)
The Resistance series's alien hordes are invading America and this time it's an NYC firefighter at the forefront of the action. Singleplayer story is complemented by an 8-person multiplayer mode.
Price: $39 / ?49 / £39 / R499 / ¥4,980
Batman: Arkham City Game of the Year Ed. (360 PS3)
North America: May 29, Teen
European regions: September 7, 16+
The Dark Knight stamps out crime in Arkham's prison city, teaming up with Catwoman and Robin on the way. The Game of the Year Edition includes new expansion Harley Quinn's Revenge as well as all five previously released content packs.
Price: $49.99
batmanarkhamcity.com
The Binding of Isaac: Wrath of the Lamb (Mac WinPC)
International: May 28
Ed McMillen's allegorical tale of emotional hardship, escapism, and random dungeon layouts is augmented by this five chapter excursion that adds new items, enemies, rooms, and endings. Plus more secrets.
Price: $3 or equivalent, via Steam Network.
store.steampowered.com/app/113200
Inversion (360 PS3)
North America: June 5, M17+
Europe: June 8, 18+
A Gears of War-style cover shooter given a twist as players mess with gravity. Aliens invade, screw up natural physics, and so a policeman and his neighbor set off to sort things out.
Price: $59 / ?39 / £29 / R599
namcobandaigames.com/console/inversion
The Sims 3: Katy Perry Sweet Treats (Mac PC) North America: June 5, Teen
European regions: June 8, 12+
Poptastic endorsement of the Sims series continues as Katy introduces Candyfornia's confectionary-themed dresses, hairstyles, furniture, and a Simlish lanugage version of her song 'Last Friday Night.'
Price: $29 / ?29 / £25 / R199
thesims3.com
This article is brought to you by COMPUTERS.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Schilling video game firm lays off staff: report
BOSTON (Reuters) - The troubled video gaming company run by former Red Sox baseball great Curt Schilling seemed on the verge of collapse on Thursday and had laid off its entire staff, according to several gaming industry websites and other media.
The apparent firings by 38 Studios came days after the company, based in Providence, Rhode Island, barely made a debt repayment to the state, weeks after the money was due.
The Verge.com said 38 Studios had closed its Rhode Island office and its Maryland-based subsidiary, Big Huge Games.
WPRI, a Providence television station, said 38 Studios told its employees that they were laid off effective immediately, as the company experienced 'an economic downturn.'
38 Studios, formed in 2006 as the brainchild of avid gamer Schilling, had 379 full-time employees as of March 15.
The company received a $75 million taxpayer-backed loan guarantee from Rhode Island in 2010 as an incentive to move its headquarters from Massachusetts. It has received almost $50 million of those funds, according to the state.
Last week, when the company struggled to make a $1.1 million payment, it failed to meet payroll. Two top executives, including Chief Executive Officer Jen MacLean, quit this week and removed 38 Studios from their LinkedIn profiles, according to the Boston Globe.
Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee, who opposed the 38 Studios deal when he ran for office in 2010, and other state officials have had a serious of emergency meetings with Schilling over the past week.
During that time other video game companies have held job fairs in Providence to attract some of the company's embattled - and now available - workers.
Schilling, a New England sports hero who helped bring a World Series back to Boston in 2004 and has also been a prominent backer of conservative politicians, has avoided talking to the media in recent weeks.
On Tuesday, Schilling said on Facebook that his team 'has shown breathtaking resilience through these incredibly challenging times.'
Pledged as collateral to Rhode Island against the loan are the present and future rights to 'Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning,' the video game launched in February, and those to an elaborate, multi-player game code-named 'Project Copernicus,' which is still in development.
(Editing by Mohammad Zargham)
This article is brought to you by BUY CHEAP COMPUTERS.
The apparent firings by 38 Studios came days after the company, based in Providence, Rhode Island, barely made a debt repayment to the state, weeks after the money was due.
The Verge.com said 38 Studios had closed its Rhode Island office and its Maryland-based subsidiary, Big Huge Games.
WPRI, a Providence television station, said 38 Studios told its employees that they were laid off effective immediately, as the company experienced 'an economic downturn.'
38 Studios, formed in 2006 as the brainchild of avid gamer Schilling, had 379 full-time employees as of March 15.
The company received a $75 million taxpayer-backed loan guarantee from Rhode Island in 2010 as an incentive to move its headquarters from Massachusetts. It has received almost $50 million of those funds, according to the state.
Last week, when the company struggled to make a $1.1 million payment, it failed to meet payroll. Two top executives, including Chief Executive Officer Jen MacLean, quit this week and removed 38 Studios from their LinkedIn profiles, according to the Boston Globe.
Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee, who opposed the 38 Studios deal when he ran for office in 2010, and other state officials have had a serious of emergency meetings with Schilling over the past week.
During that time other video game companies have held job fairs in Providence to attract some of the company's embattled - and now available - workers.
Schilling, a New England sports hero who helped bring a World Series back to Boston in 2004 and has also been a prominent backer of conservative politicians, has avoided talking to the media in recent weeks.
On Tuesday, Schilling said on Facebook that his team 'has shown breathtaking resilience through these incredibly challenging times.'
Pledged as collateral to Rhode Island against the loan are the present and future rights to 'Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning,' the video game launched in February, and those to an elaborate, multi-player game code-named 'Project Copernicus,' which is still in development.
(Editing by Mohammad Zargham)
This article is brought to you by BUY CHEAP COMPUTERS.
Zynga unleashes zombies on smartphones
Zombies stalked San Francisco streets on Thursday as social game maker Zynga ghoulishly introduced a game that lets iPhone or iPod Touch users slash and hack the undead.
Actors posing as the living dead were unleashed here and in Manhattan ahead of the 'Zombie Swipeout' launch. The hordes enticed humans with free 'blood pops' -- hibiscus and mint popsicles promising the 'fleshiest' ingredients.
'We love zombies,' said Zynga Mobile Germany studio director Matthias Hoechsmann, whose small startup gave the world the hit game 'ZombieSmash' before being bought in October by the San Francisco-based social games star.
'What we love most is there are so many things you can do to zombies - anvils, machetes, baseball bats, landmines...' he continued as he gave AFP a preview of the new smartphone game.
'It's guilt-free killing because they are already dead.'
'Zombie Swipeout' will launch globally in coming weeks.
The free, arcade style game has one rule: don't kill the good guy.
Cartoon zombies bounce into view on screen and points are scored by slaughtering them by slashing with fingers. Occasionally a human character arcs into the mix, and killing him ends the game.
'The object of the game is to slash, slice, bludgeon, explode, and freeze as many zombies as possible without harming Joey, the lone human survivor from ZombieSmash,' according to Hoechsmann.
Hoechsmann's path to game design was an unusual one. He studied computer science and genome research in Germany, earning a doctorate degree.
Hoechsmann took a position at a California State university where he studied micro-organisms that could survive in extreme temperatures.
He was a college researcher and his brother was working on a doctorate degree of his own in Germany when the iPhone launched and 'changed our lives.'
'My brother and I grew up with games and played every game out there, so we learned something about programming and started making our own games.'
'Zombie Swipeout' grows more challenging as players progress through levels. Extra points are award for moves such as head blows or chain kills.
Players can earn, or buy, weapons with special powers such as slowing enemies or adding time to games. Players are given 75 seconds to earn as many points as they can.
Leader boards rank friends weekly according to high scores and display special badges earned. And snapshots of 'awesome kills' can be shared on social networking service Facebook or sent to friends by email.
This article is brought to you by BUY A USED COMPUTER.
Actors posing as the living dead were unleashed here and in Manhattan ahead of the 'Zombie Swipeout' launch. The hordes enticed humans with free 'blood pops' -- hibiscus and mint popsicles promising the 'fleshiest' ingredients.
'We love zombies,' said Zynga Mobile Germany studio director Matthias Hoechsmann, whose small startup gave the world the hit game 'ZombieSmash' before being bought in October by the San Francisco-based social games star.
'What we love most is there are so many things you can do to zombies - anvils, machetes, baseball bats, landmines...' he continued as he gave AFP a preview of the new smartphone game.
'It's guilt-free killing because they are already dead.'
'Zombie Swipeout' will launch globally in coming weeks.
The free, arcade style game has one rule: don't kill the good guy.
Cartoon zombies bounce into view on screen and points are scored by slaughtering them by slashing with fingers. Occasionally a human character arcs into the mix, and killing him ends the game.
'The object of the game is to slash, slice, bludgeon, explode, and freeze as many zombies as possible without harming Joey, the lone human survivor from ZombieSmash,' according to Hoechsmann.
Hoechsmann's path to game design was an unusual one. He studied computer science and genome research in Germany, earning a doctorate degree.
Hoechsmann took a position at a California State university where he studied micro-organisms that could survive in extreme temperatures.
He was a college researcher and his brother was working on a doctorate degree of his own in Germany when the iPhone launched and 'changed our lives.'
'My brother and I grew up with games and played every game out there, so we learned something about programming and started making our own games.'
'Zombie Swipeout' grows more challenging as players progress through levels. Extra points are award for moves such as head blows or chain kills.
Players can earn, or buy, weapons with special powers such as slowing enemies or adding time to games. Players are given 75 seconds to earn as many points as they can.
Leader boards rank friends weekly according to high scores and display special badges earned. And snapshots of 'awesome kills' can be shared on social networking service Facebook or sent to friends by email.
This article is brought to you by BUY A USED COMPUTER.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
How the video games industry is faring
A look at results from selected companies in the video games business:
April 12: Market tracker NPD Group says U.S. retail sales of video game hardware, software and accessories fell 25 percent in March from a year earlier to $1.1 billion. It marked the fourth month of decline as Sony Corp.'s new PS Vita handheld failed to spark a turnaround. Electronic Arts Inc.'s 'Mass Effect 3' was the top seller in the month.
April 18: Video game maker THQ Inc. says its expects adjusted loss and revenue in the latest quarter will come in above Wall Street's expectations because of better-than-expected digital sales and strong sales of 'Saints Row: The Third' and 'UFC Undisputed 3.'
April 19: Microsoft Corp. says revenue from Xbox 360 products and services fell 33 percent. Although it got more revenue from its Xbox Live subscription service, it sold about half the Xbox 360 consoles it did a year ago and fewer stand-alone Kinect motion-control sensors.
April 26: Nintendo Co. reports a $533 million loss for the fiscal year that just ended as weak sales of the Wii home console and the strong yen eroded earnings. Nintendo sold 9.8 million Wii machines during the fiscal year, fewer than the 15 million a year earlier and below its initial hopes of selling 13 million machines.
May 7: Electronic Arts Inc. forecast lower-than-expected revenue for the coming year, sending shares down. The company, maker of games such as 'Madden NFL' and 'The Sims,' is trying to boost digital revenue as demand weakens for console video games. CEO John Riccitiello said EA in the coming year would 'break away from the pack, with a very different profile than the traditional game companies and capabilities that none of our new digital competitors can match.'
May 8: The Walt Disney Co. says revenue at its interactive media division rose 13 percent while the unit trimmed losses. The interactive unit is still on pace to be profitable by 2013 as the company prioritizes social and mobile games over expensive-to-produce games for video game consoles like the Xbox 360.
May 9: Activision Blizzard Inc. says net income declined because of lower revenue from its games, but its adjusted results beat Wall Street's expectations and the company's own forecasts. Activision publishes 'Call of Duty' and 'World of Warcraft.'
Take-Two Interactive Software Inc. says it has delayed the release of 'BioShock Infinite,' an eagerly awaited shooter game set in 1912, to give creators more time. It will launch on Feb. 26, rather than in October as the company said previously. Take-Two's stock fell 6 percent.
May 10: Sony Corp. reports a decrease in its game business during the fiscal year that ended in March. That's because of lower revenue from PlayStation 3 because of a price cut and lower sales of the older, PlayStation 2 because of a platform migration.
NPD Group says U.S. retail sales of video game hardware, software and accessories fell 32 percent in April from a year ago, the fifth month of decline.
May 15: Video game publisher THQ Inc. posts a loss in the latest quarter as the company moved through its restructuring efforts. The company has significantly changed its business to focus on its core gaming business that includes its popular wrestling and action-adventure video games such as 'WWE' and 'Darksiders.' After adjusting for business realignment and other special items, the company lost 12 cents per share, compared with a profit of 15 cents a year ago.
May 17: GameStop Corp., the world's largest video game retailer, reports a 10 percent decline in first-quarter profit. Its outlook disappointed Wall Street. The company says sales of used, mobile and digital products fell slightly, while sales of new games and systems dropped more than expected.
Tuesday: Take-Two Interactive Software Inc. says net loss in the latest quarter more than tripled as revenue fell and the video game maker failed to repeat the success of 'Red Dead Redemption' from a year ago. Sales were slightly better than expected.
This news article is brought to you by GADGETS NEWS - where latest news are our top priority.
April 12: Market tracker NPD Group says U.S. retail sales of video game hardware, software and accessories fell 25 percent in March from a year earlier to $1.1 billion. It marked the fourth month of decline as Sony Corp.'s new PS Vita handheld failed to spark a turnaround. Electronic Arts Inc.'s 'Mass Effect 3' was the top seller in the month.
April 18: Video game maker THQ Inc. says its expects adjusted loss and revenue in the latest quarter will come in above Wall Street's expectations because of better-than-expected digital sales and strong sales of 'Saints Row: The Third' and 'UFC Undisputed 3.'
April 19: Microsoft Corp. says revenue from Xbox 360 products and services fell 33 percent. Although it got more revenue from its Xbox Live subscription service, it sold about half the Xbox 360 consoles it did a year ago and fewer stand-alone Kinect motion-control sensors.
April 26: Nintendo Co. reports a $533 million loss for the fiscal year that just ended as weak sales of the Wii home console and the strong yen eroded earnings. Nintendo sold 9.8 million Wii machines during the fiscal year, fewer than the 15 million a year earlier and below its initial hopes of selling 13 million machines.
May 7: Electronic Arts Inc. forecast lower-than-expected revenue for the coming year, sending shares down. The company, maker of games such as 'Madden NFL' and 'The Sims,' is trying to boost digital revenue as demand weakens for console video games. CEO John Riccitiello said EA in the coming year would 'break away from the pack, with a very different profile than the traditional game companies and capabilities that none of our new digital competitors can match.'
May 8: The Walt Disney Co. says revenue at its interactive media division rose 13 percent while the unit trimmed losses. The interactive unit is still on pace to be profitable by 2013 as the company prioritizes social and mobile games over expensive-to-produce games for video game consoles like the Xbox 360.
May 9: Activision Blizzard Inc. says net income declined because of lower revenue from its games, but its adjusted results beat Wall Street's expectations and the company's own forecasts. Activision publishes 'Call of Duty' and 'World of Warcraft.'
Take-Two Interactive Software Inc. says it has delayed the release of 'BioShock Infinite,' an eagerly awaited shooter game set in 1912, to give creators more time. It will launch on Feb. 26, rather than in October as the company said previously. Take-Two's stock fell 6 percent.
May 10: Sony Corp. reports a decrease in its game business during the fiscal year that ended in March. That's because of lower revenue from PlayStation 3 because of a price cut and lower sales of the older, PlayStation 2 because of a platform migration.
NPD Group says U.S. retail sales of video game hardware, software and accessories fell 32 percent in April from a year ago, the fifth month of decline.
May 15: Video game publisher THQ Inc. posts a loss in the latest quarter as the company moved through its restructuring efforts. The company has significantly changed its business to focus on its core gaming business that includes its popular wrestling and action-adventure video games such as 'WWE' and 'Darksiders.' After adjusting for business realignment and other special items, the company lost 12 cents per share, compared with a profit of 15 cents a year ago.
May 17: GameStop Corp., the world's largest video game retailer, reports a 10 percent decline in first-quarter profit. Its outlook disappointed Wall Street. The company says sales of used, mobile and digital products fell slightly, while sales of new games and systems dropped more than expected.
Tuesday: Take-Two Interactive Software Inc. says net loss in the latest quarter more than tripled as revenue fell and the video game maker failed to repeat the success of 'Red Dead Redemption' from a year ago. Sales were slightly better than expected.
This news article is brought to you by GADGETS NEWS - where latest news are our top priority.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
American Express plants money trees in "Farmville"
American Express on Tuesday began letting lovers of Zynga games plant money trees on 'Farmville' acreage.
The financial services titan known for high-status credit cards unveiled an alliance with the San Francisco based social games star.
Players of Zynga's popular 'FarmVille' will be able to earn in-game virtual money as rewards for using specially branded prepaid Serve cards from American Express for shopping out in the real world.
'We're thrilled to expand our relationship with Zynga and provide an easy way for players to earn Zynga virtual game cash by learning about Serve and signing up to receive the many benefits of our digital wallet,' said American Express president of enterprise growth Dan Schulman.
'As the commerce landscape continues to change, and online and offline spending converges, Serve is focused on partnering with companies like Zynga to create unique value for our customers in the environments they love.'
'FarmVille' lets players tend to virtual crops with help from friends at leading social network Facebook or Zynga's recently-opened online playground at zynga.com.
Players were given the option of planting 'Serve Money Trees' on their make-believe farms.
Those who plant trees are prompted to register Serve cards, load them with real money and then use them for purchases at US shops where American Express cards are accepted.
Doing so gives rise to crops of 'Farm Cash' that can be harvested and spent in Zynga games.
'We're excited to partner with American Express to invent new ways for people to experience Zynga play in more parts of their day,' said Mark Pincus CEO and Founder of Zynga. 'Together we can add surprise and delight to everyday shopping.'
American Express planned to expand the ways virtual cash crops could be cultivated, and the reward system was to eventually spread to 'CastleVille' and 'CityVille.'
Information about the program was available online at serve.com/Zynga.
This article is brought to you by BUY COMPUTERS.
The financial services titan known for high-status credit cards unveiled an alliance with the San Francisco based social games star.
Players of Zynga's popular 'FarmVille' will be able to earn in-game virtual money as rewards for using specially branded prepaid Serve cards from American Express for shopping out in the real world.
'We're thrilled to expand our relationship with Zynga and provide an easy way for players to earn Zynga virtual game cash by learning about Serve and signing up to receive the many benefits of our digital wallet,' said American Express president of enterprise growth Dan Schulman.
'As the commerce landscape continues to change, and online and offline spending converges, Serve is focused on partnering with companies like Zynga to create unique value for our customers in the environments they love.'
'FarmVille' lets players tend to virtual crops with help from friends at leading social network Facebook or Zynga's recently-opened online playground at zynga.com.
Players were given the option of planting 'Serve Money Trees' on their make-believe farms.
Those who plant trees are prompted to register Serve cards, load them with real money and then use them for purchases at US shops where American Express cards are accepted.
Doing so gives rise to crops of 'Farm Cash' that can be harvested and spent in Zynga games.
'We're excited to partner with American Express to invent new ways for people to experience Zynga play in more parts of their day,' said Mark Pincus CEO and Founder of Zynga. 'Together we can add surprise and delight to everyday shopping.'
American Express planned to expand the ways virtual cash crops could be cultivated, and the reward system was to eventually spread to 'CastleVille' and 'CityVille.'
Information about the program was available online at serve.com/Zynga.
This article is brought to you by BUY COMPUTERS.
American Express, Zynga collaborate on rewards
Players of Zynga's online games will be able to earn rewards through a prepaid card using American Express' Serve digital payments platform under a deal announced Tuesday between American Express Co. and Zynga Inc.
The Zynga Serve Rewards program is initially available to players of 'FarmVille,' a popular Facebook-based game from San Francisco-based Zynga. Similar programs will be introduced in additional games such as 'CastleVillle' and 'CityVille' over the course of the year, so that players can redeem rewards to buy virtual goods from the games.
New York-based American Express is trying to expand use of its Serve platform, introduced in March 2011. The service lets customers make payments into and from a single account in many different ways. The account can be funded from a bank account or a debit, credit or charge card. Payments can be made into the account online, via mobile phones or at stores that accept American Express cards. Serve is aimed at consumers who currently rely on cash, checks and debit cards.
Under the collaboration, 'FarmVille' players can plant an interactive 'Serve Money Tree' in the virtual farm they create through the game. Planting a tree will enable players to earn Zynga Farm Cash that can be redeemed for virtual rewards.
Once a tree is placed during the game, the player can choose to receive a co-branded Zynga Serve prepaid card in the mail. The card can be used everywhere American Express cards are accepted in the U.S. for purchases, and cardholders can receive online rewards while they play Zynga games.
At the program's launch, only the first five purchases of $25 or more will earn a player Farm Cash rewards. As the program expands, all purchases will receive in-game rewards tracked through a virtual dashboard.
Later this year, the program will include new loyalty incentives to earn game cash by making purchases using the card.
This article is brought to you by BUY COMPUTERS.
The Zynga Serve Rewards program is initially available to players of 'FarmVille,' a popular Facebook-based game from San Francisco-based Zynga. Similar programs will be introduced in additional games such as 'CastleVillle' and 'CityVille' over the course of the year, so that players can redeem rewards to buy virtual goods from the games.
New York-based American Express is trying to expand use of its Serve platform, introduced in March 2011. The service lets customers make payments into and from a single account in many different ways. The account can be funded from a bank account or a debit, credit or charge card. Payments can be made into the account online, via mobile phones or at stores that accept American Express cards. Serve is aimed at consumers who currently rely on cash, checks and debit cards.
Under the collaboration, 'FarmVille' players can plant an interactive 'Serve Money Tree' in the virtual farm they create through the game. Planting a tree will enable players to earn Zynga Farm Cash that can be redeemed for virtual rewards.
Once a tree is placed during the game, the player can choose to receive a co-branded Zynga Serve prepaid card in the mail. The card can be used everywhere American Express cards are accepted in the U.S. for purchases, and cardholders can receive online rewards while they play Zynga games.
At the program's launch, only the first five purchases of $25 or more will earn a player Farm Cash rewards. As the program expands, all purchases will receive in-game rewards tracked through a virtual dashboard.
Later this year, the program will include new loyalty incentives to earn game cash by making purchases using the card.
This article is brought to you by BUY COMPUTERS.
Zynga launches prepaid debit card with American Express
SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Zynga Inc., the social games publisher, has reached a partnership agreement with American Express to issue a prepaid debit card that could be used to redeem virtual credits, the two companies said.
The partnership will help increase use of American Express' digital payments platform Serve as the credit card issuer competes with online gateway Paypal, a unit of eBay Inc, which is pushing to process transactions by mobile phones.
Zynga, whose shares have fallen as user numbers for its most popular games decline, aims to boost the profile of its partnership programs with major companies and also to retain users, who will be rewarded with in-game credits for swiping the American Express card.
'This is the first rewards program for a pre-paid card, and Zynga and American Express have the opportunity to bring value to Zynga players, while connecting and expanding American Express' customer base,' Jeff Karp, Zynga's chief marketing and revenue officer, told Reuters.
The two companies declined to disclose financial details of the partnership.
Beginning this week, cardholders who make purchases exceeding $25 will collect 'Farm Cash,' the currency used to purchase virtual goods within Zynga's FarmVille game.
Zynga said it will roll out similar rewards for its CastleVille and CityVille in the coming months.
'This enables us for the first time, in a fully integrated fashion, to link everyday spend that you would do online or offline to in-game virtual currency rewards and special offers,' said Daniel Schulman, group president of enterprise growth at American Express.
In the future, Schulman said, the program will be expanded so Zynga players can receive real-life discounts for in-game activity.
Zynga shares have shed almost half its value since April 1 amid investor doubts over whether the company can sustain its revenue growth.
The company's stock has been battered especially in recent days, as Facebook's poorly received initial public offering has tainted some Internet stocks.
Zynga shares closed down 1 percent on Monday at $7.09.
(Reporting by Gerry Shih; Editing by Ryan Woo)
This news article is brought to you by SEXUAL HEALTH NEWS - where latest news are our top priority.
The partnership will help increase use of American Express' digital payments platform Serve as the credit card issuer competes with online gateway Paypal, a unit of eBay Inc, which is pushing to process transactions by mobile phones.
Zynga, whose shares have fallen as user numbers for its most popular games decline, aims to boost the profile of its partnership programs with major companies and also to retain users, who will be rewarded with in-game credits for swiping the American Express card.
'This is the first rewards program for a pre-paid card, and Zynga and American Express have the opportunity to bring value to Zynga players, while connecting and expanding American Express' customer base,' Jeff Karp, Zynga's chief marketing and revenue officer, told Reuters.
The two companies declined to disclose financial details of the partnership.
Beginning this week, cardholders who make purchases exceeding $25 will collect 'Farm Cash,' the currency used to purchase virtual goods within Zynga's FarmVille game.
Zynga said it will roll out similar rewards for its CastleVille and CityVille in the coming months.
'This enables us for the first time, in a fully integrated fashion, to link everyday spend that you would do online or offline to in-game virtual currency rewards and special offers,' said Daniel Schulman, group president of enterprise growth at American Express.
In the future, Schulman said, the program will be expanded so Zynga players can receive real-life discounts for in-game activity.
Zynga shares have shed almost half its value since April 1 amid investor doubts over whether the company can sustain its revenue growth.
The company's stock has been battered especially in recent days, as Facebook's poorly received initial public offering has tainted some Internet stocks.
Zynga shares closed down 1 percent on Monday at $7.09.
(Reporting by Gerry Shih; Editing by Ryan Woo)
This news article is brought to you by SEXUAL HEALTH NEWS - where latest news are our top priority.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Ubisoft's Ghost Recon comes to Facebook [video]
Facebook, the world's largest social networking site, is filled with a large selection of social and casual games, such as Draw Something, Words With Friends and FarmVille. While the topic of Facebook gaming is widely discussed, there isn't much there in the way of titles that would attract the hardcore gaming crowd. Ubisoft is looking to change that, however, with the release of Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Commander. The game, unlike its console counterpart, is not a first-person shooter but instead a 2D game with an overhead viewpoint that contains both social and more complex aspects. Players are given the option to invite and team up with their Facebook friends to form alliances and complete a variety of missions. The Facebook game is also integrated with "Ghost Recon Future Soldier" on consoles, allowing players to unlock characters, experience points and currency that can be used in both games. Ghost Recon Commander is available now on Facebook, and Ubisoft's trailer follows below.
The Facebook Effect: Zynga, other stocks down
NEW YORK (AP) - Facebook's tepid start as a publicly traded company dragged other social media and related stocks lower on Monday.
Facebook Inc., which began trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market on Friday, fell $3.94, or 10.3 percent, to $34.29 in late afternoon trading on Monday. The company's initial public offering was one of the most hotly anticipated ones in history. But the resulting staggering valuation - more than $100 billion - likely gave investors pause as they sought to assign value to the world's largest online social network. Shares had closed up just 23 cents to $38.23 on Friday.
Shares of Zynga Inc., the online game maker whose 'Zynga Poker,' ''FarmVille' and other games are played primarily on Facebook, slid dipped 6 cents to $7.10 in afternoon trading. Shares had fallen as low as $6.36 earlier, the lowest value since the company's December IPO. Shares have risen as high as $15.91 since December.
Shares of professional networking service LinkedIn Corp. fell $1.02, or 1 percent, to $98. Shares of the company, which went public a year ago, have ranged from $55.98 to $120.63 since last May.
Jive Software Inc., which offers tools to run social networks for businesses, also dropped, giving up 36 cents, or 2.1 percent, to $17. The stock has traded between $14.18 and $28.15 since its December IPO.
Other Internet companies that have gone public over the past year fared better Monday. Shares of online deals company Groupon Inc. jumped 86 cents, or 7.5 percent, to $12.44. The stock, which started trading last November, has changed hands in the range of $9.63 and $31.14 since.
This article is brought to you by BUY CHEAP COMPUTERS.
Facebook Inc., which began trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market on Friday, fell $3.94, or 10.3 percent, to $34.29 in late afternoon trading on Monday. The company's initial public offering was one of the most hotly anticipated ones in history. But the resulting staggering valuation - more than $100 billion - likely gave investors pause as they sought to assign value to the world's largest online social network. Shares had closed up just 23 cents to $38.23 on Friday.
Shares of Zynga Inc., the online game maker whose 'Zynga Poker,' ''FarmVille' and other games are played primarily on Facebook, slid dipped 6 cents to $7.10 in afternoon trading. Shares had fallen as low as $6.36 earlier, the lowest value since the company's December IPO. Shares have risen as high as $15.91 since December.
Shares of professional networking service LinkedIn Corp. fell $1.02, or 1 percent, to $98. Shares of the company, which went public a year ago, have ranged from $55.98 to $120.63 since last May.
Jive Software Inc., which offers tools to run social networks for businesses, also dropped, giving up 36 cents, or 2.1 percent, to $17. The stock has traded between $14.18 and $28.15 since its December IPO.
Other Internet companies that have gone public over the past year fared better Monday. Shares of online deals company Groupon Inc. jumped 86 cents, or 7.5 percent, to $12.44. The stock, which started trading last November, has changed hands in the range of $9.63 and $31.14 since.
This article is brought to you by BUY CHEAP COMPUTERS.
What You Can Learn From Zynga's Cool Company Culture
This post originally appeared on the American Express OPEN Forum, where Mashable regularly contributes articles about leveraging social media and technology in small business.
When thinking of model places for workplace perks, the successful startups of Silicon Valley undoubtedly come to mind. And while heavy-hitters such as Google and Facebook are famous for their jaw-dropping employee amenities, up-and-coming mid-level companies are also getting in on the act.
[More from Mashable: 5 Smart Companies Using Tech For Good]
Mashable took a tour of Zynga, a wildly popular distributor of some of the most played social and mobile games. When it comes to perks, the father of FarmVille doesn't skimp. In fact, Zynga's office is so loaded with perks and amenities, it would make working from home a bore.
It's not uncommon for tech companies in Silicon Valley and San Francisco to offer its employees catered lunches, but Zynga takes it further with meals cooked on-site by professional chefs. Each floor has a fully-stocked and themed kitchen, including a candy kitchen and a healthy "zen" kitchen.
[More from Mashable: 6 Ways to Get a Tech Job Without a Tech Degree]
Everything is prepared on-site -- there's even a pizza oven -- and made with locally sourced ingredients. The company's executive chef is Matthew DuTrumble, who was the youngest chef instructor at the California Culinary Academy and also had a show on the Food Network, Private Chefs of Beverly Hills. Want to eat some meat for lunch? The on-site butcher will take care of that in his two-floor kitchen.
If you're more interested in keeping a good diet, there are always healthy options, including a fully loaded salad bar and freshly brewed Kombucha. The healthy options are an important perk, considering desk jobs are notorious for helping people pack on pounds.
In the basement, there is a lounge area packed with big screen TVs, a curved wood bar area and free beer on tap. If you'd rather unwind with a workout than an ice-cold beer, you can hit up the Zynga gym. Employees can take CrossFit classes, meet with a nutritionist or schedule a free massage.
And if you want to work and play with your canine friend, he's more than welcome -- every day is bring your dog to work day at Zynga. After all, the company is named after the CEO Mark Pincus' late dog, Zinga.
Zynga provides hotel-like amenities to keep employees happy and retain (and attract) talent. Tech companies in particular are notorious for providing awesome on-site perks to encourage employees stay at work longer and up their productivity. Facebook offers employees a free shuttle to work, plus numerous "micro-kitchens" stocked with snacks, and a free cafeteria where employees are welcome to invite family members for lunch. Google has a golf course, basketball courts and nap pods for a mid-day snooze.
Zynga churned out six games in the first quarter of 2012, so the team is definitely working hard. Despite the long hours, the employees' access to a spacious top-of-the-line gym, a team of chefs and all the free beer you can drink makes for quite the hook-up.
All the perks in the startup world make sense -- several Gallup studies have shown a correlation between productivity and worker happiness, and Gallup estimates that organizations whose employees are not happy and engaged lose out on billions of dollars in potential revenue.
Check out the gallery of pics below to see some of the cool stuff they get to do at Zynga.
Click here to view this gallery.
What do you think about this company? Would you work here? Why or why not? Tell us in the comments.
More Small Business Resources From OPEN Forum:
This article is brought to you by BUY A COMPUTER.
When thinking of model places for workplace perks, the successful startups of Silicon Valley undoubtedly come to mind. And while heavy-hitters such as Google and Facebook are famous for their jaw-dropping employee amenities, up-and-coming mid-level companies are also getting in on the act.
[More from Mashable: 5 Smart Companies Using Tech For Good]
Mashable took a tour of Zynga, a wildly popular distributor of some of the most played social and mobile games. When it comes to perks, the father of FarmVille doesn't skimp. In fact, Zynga's office is so loaded with perks and amenities, it would make working from home a bore.
Good Food
It's not uncommon for tech companies in Silicon Valley and San Francisco to offer its employees catered lunches, but Zynga takes it further with meals cooked on-site by professional chefs. Each floor has a fully-stocked and themed kitchen, including a candy kitchen and a healthy "zen" kitchen.
[More from Mashable: 6 Ways to Get a Tech Job Without a Tech Degree]
Everything is prepared on-site -- there's even a pizza oven -- and made with locally sourced ingredients. The company's executive chef is Matthew DuTrumble, who was the youngest chef instructor at the California Culinary Academy and also had a show on the Food Network, Private Chefs of Beverly Hills. Want to eat some meat for lunch? The on-site butcher will take care of that in his two-floor kitchen.
If you're more interested in keeping a good diet, there are always healthy options, including a fully loaded salad bar and freshly brewed Kombucha. The healthy options are an important perk, considering desk jobs are notorious for helping people pack on pounds.
Good Fun
In the basement, there is a lounge area packed with big screen TVs, a curved wood bar area and free beer on tap. If you'd rather unwind with a workout than an ice-cold beer, you can hit up the Zynga gym. Employees can take CrossFit classes, meet with a nutritionist or schedule a free massage.
And if you want to work and play with your canine friend, he's more than welcome -- every day is bring your dog to work day at Zynga. After all, the company is named after the CEO Mark Pincus' late dog, Zinga.
Work Hard, Play Hard
Zynga provides hotel-like amenities to keep employees happy and retain (and attract) talent. Tech companies in particular are notorious for providing awesome on-site perks to encourage employees stay at work longer and up their productivity. Facebook offers employees a free shuttle to work, plus numerous "micro-kitchens" stocked with snacks, and a free cafeteria where employees are welcome to invite family members for lunch. Google has a golf course, basketball courts and nap pods for a mid-day snooze.
Zynga churned out six games in the first quarter of 2012, so the team is definitely working hard. Despite the long hours, the employees' access to a spacious top-of-the-line gym, a team of chefs and all the free beer you can drink makes for quite the hook-up.
All the perks in the startup world make sense -- several Gallup studies have shown a correlation between productivity and worker happiness, and Gallup estimates that organizations whose employees are not happy and engaged lose out on billions of dollars in potential revenue.
Check out the gallery of pics below to see some of the cool stuff they get to do at Zynga.
Work Life at Zynga
This staircase leads to the lounge area and the gym.Click here to view this gallery.
What do you think about this company? Would you work here? Why or why not? Tell us in the comments.
More Small Business Resources From OPEN Forum:
- Should Small Businesses Follow Everyone Back on Twitter? - Are You Falling into the Pricing Trap? - How to Take Your PR Pitches to the Next LevelThis story originally published on Mashable here.
This article is brought to you by BUY A COMPUTER.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)