tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48934300653980814042024-02-20T18:35:16.360-08:00FREE GAMESFree Games News Online.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger119125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-27710425469232749712013-04-18T04:01:00.007-07:002013-04-18T04:01:45.551-07:00The 10 Best free games - The Independent<strong>The 10 Best free games - The Independent</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="body "> <p>An epic sci-fi shoot 'em up with a similar aesthetic to Halo. The massively multiplayer game has you scrambling around a dystopian landscape fighting for territory.</p><p><a href="http://planetside2.eu" target="_blank">planetside2.eu</a></p><p><strong><a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/features/the-10-best-free-games-8577462.html?action=gallery&ino=2" target="_blank">2. Mr Smoozles Goes Nutso</a></strong></p><p>Based on the online comic Mr Smoozles, this was the first indie game released by the award- winning writer and developer Steve Ince. It was originally a paid-for game, but Ince decided to release it for free in 2011.</p><p><a href="http://juniper-games.com" target="_blank">juniper-games.com</a></p><p><strong><a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/features/the-10-best-free-games-8577462.html?action=gallery&ino=3" target="_blank">3. Slender</a></strong></p><p>Terrifying stuff. This is one of those games that are just so eerily quiet you'd jump if someone came into the room while you were playing it. The artful indie horror game involves wandering around a forest collecting pages armed only with a flashlight, while avoiding the "Slender Man" who is perpetually chasing you through the fog.</p><p><a href="http://parsceproductions.net" target="_blank">parsceproductions.net</a></p><p><strong><a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/features/the-10-best-free-games-8577462.html?action=gallery&ino=4" target="_blank">4. Wonderputt</a></strong></p><p>There are a ton of brain-numbing golf games on the web, but none as beautiful as this one.It is colourful, clean and creative. You should play it to appreciate the graphic design as much as the game itself.</p><p><a href="http://dampgnat.com/wonderputt" target="_blank">dampgnat.com/wonderputt</a></p><p><strong><a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/features/the-10-best-free-games-8 577462.html?action=gallery&ino=5" target="_blank">5. Bumperball</a></strong></p><p>Available online as well as for iPad, this is a fun arcade sports game that combines bumper cars with football. Possibly one for the retro game geeks out there.</p><p><a href="http://bumperball.com" target="_blank">bumperball.com</a></p><p><strong><a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/features/the-10-best-free-games-8577462.html?action=gallery&ino=6" target="_blank">6. Yeti Sports</a></strong></p><p>The super addictive Yeti sports collection is a true Olympiad of online mini-games, which can also be downloaded as apps. Highlights include Albatross Overload and Scrat Jump. Almost all of them involve throwing a penguin as far as you can.</p><p><a href="http://yetisports.org" target="_blank">yetisports.org</a></p><p><strong><a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/features/the-10-best-free-games-8577462.html?action=gallery&ino=7" ta rget="_blank">7. Numpty Physics</a></strong></p><p>If only learning science at school could have been this fun. Use crayons to solve puzzles on a piece of paper and experiment with your drawings that come to life according the rules of physics.</p><p><a href="http://numptyphisics.garage.maemo.org" target="_blank">numptyphisics.garage.maemo.org</a></p><p><strong><a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/features/the-10-best-free-games-8577462.html?action=gallery&ino=8" target="_blank">8. Drifting Afternoon</a></strong></p><p>One of many tranquil online games by designer Ferry Halim. In this one you are a joyous cat bounding through a field with pastel-coloured bubbles floating overhead. All you have to do is jump on the bubbles. It is as blissful as it is relaxing, five minutes of playtime is like therapy.</p><p><a href="http://ferryhalim.com" target="_blank">ferryhalim.com</a></p><p><strong><a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets- and-tech/features/the-10-best-free-games-8577462.html?action=gallery&ino=9" target="_blank">9. Flow</a></strong></p><p>Hypnotically immersive, this simple, yet multi-award winning game is the result of one student's academic game design thesis.</p><p><a href="http://interactive.usc.edu/projects/cloud/flowing" target="_blank">interactive.usc. edu/projects/cloud/flowing</a></p><p><strong><a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/features/the-10-best-free-games-8577462.html?action=gallery&ino=10" target="_blank">10. Rebuild 2</a></strong></p><p>Put down that baseball bat, this is not your usual zombie massacre arcade game. Instead, this strategy game is set in the aftermath and you need to survive with the resources you have, scope out new buildings to protect your population and avoid further attacks from the dreaded flesh eaters. It's for the thinkers, not the shooters.</p><p><a href="http://armorgames.com" target="_blank">armorgames.com</a></p > </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/features/the-10-best-free-games-8577462.html">http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/features/the-10-best-free-games-8577462.html</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-45120704075726102662013-04-18T04:01:00.005-07:002013-04-18T04:01:41.234-07:00Future EU PlayStation Plus Free Games Discussed, Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD ... - PlayStation LifeStyle (blog)<strong>Future EU PlayStation Plus Free Games Discussed, Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD ... - PlayStation LifeStyle (blog)</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="articleTextContent">
 
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 <p class="theByline">April 17, 2013 Written by Jason Dunning </p>
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 <p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-231841" alt="finalfantasyxhdscreenshot2" src="http://cdn2-www.playstationlifestyle.net/assets/uploads/2013/03/finalfantasyxhdscreenshot2.jpg" width="555" height="250" /></p> <p>The European PlayStation Plus free games for next month were detailed <a title="May 2013 European PlayStation Plus Free Games Include Hitman: Absolution, Velocity Ultra" href="http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2013/04/17/may-2013-european-playstation-plus-free-games-include/">earlier today</a>, but knowing what is happening in May just isnât enough. Many people peppered <a href="http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2013/04/17/playstation-plus-your-may-update/#comments">Chris Howe</a>, PlayStation Store and PS+ Content Manager at SCEE, with questions, and he answered quite a few of them, giving insight into the near future of PS+ for Europe:</p> <ul><li><i>LEGO</i> games âare on the radar,â news âpossibly in a couple of months timeâ</li> <li>Due to <i>Disgaea 3</i> not being available âin quite a few territories,â it wonât appear in the Instant Game Collection any time soon</li> <li>â<i>Dishonored</i> is not available in quite a few territories at present so unless we can find a solution to that and the publisher wishes to participate in Plus we wonât be getting it anytime soonâ</li> <li><i>Ninja Gaiden Sigma+</i> is a possibility, though âthere is a little rating issue to resolve around itâ</li> <li>No plans for <i>Tales of Graces f </i>or <i>Atelier Ayesha: The Alchemist of Dusk</i></li> <li>They will âbe looking to update the PS3 long term titles soon but at the moment I canât say anything I am afraid.â They are referring to games like <i>inFamous 2, LittleBigPlanet 2</i>, and <i>MotorStorm</i>, which have been free for a while now</li> <li><i>Grand Theft Auto </i>discounts are lined up for the future (likely something similar to what <a title="Tomorrow on US/CA PlayStation Plus: April 16th, 2013 â" Malicious Free, Grand Theft Auto Franchise Sale" href="http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2013/04/15/tomorrow-on-usca-playstation-plus-april-16th-2013-malicious-free-grand-theft-auto-franchise-sale/">North America is seeing</a>), though they havenât finalized the details yet</li> <li>When Chris was asked if thereâs any chance <i>Demonâs Souls </i>would be added to the IGC, he replied with, âMaybeâ¦.â</li> <li>Someone suggested that, because of <i>Iron Man 3 </i>hitting theatres soon, it would be fun to see a Marvel sale on the PSN. Chris responded by saying, âMarvel is a difficult one as there are a lot of stakeholders to take into consideration which makes discounts and contracts difficult to negotiate but we will see what we can doâ</li> </ul><p>Separate from PS+, a comment did mention the fact that the <i>Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster </i>on PS3 popped up on the <a href="https://store.sonyentertainmentnetwork.com/#%21/en-gb/games/final-fantasy-x-x-2-hd-remaster/cid=EP0082-NPEL00562_00-DISCONLYPARENT00">Sony Entertainment Network Online Store</a>, though it is without a price, carries a release date of April 17th, which clearly isnât true, and doesnât show up on the physical PS Store. What this news does point to is that the <i>Remaster </i>might be coming to the PSN, but weâll have to wait for word from Square Enix before we can tell for sure.</p> <p>What do you hope to see from PlayStation Plus in the future? Let us know in the comments below.</p> 
 </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2013/04/17/future-eu-playstation-plus-free-games-discussed-final-fantasy-xx-2-hd-remaster-pops-up-on-eu-psn-online-store/">http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2013/04/17/future-eu-playstation-plus-free-games-discussed-final-fantasy-xx-2-hd-remaster-pops-up-on-eu-psn-online-store/</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-45346196475398409592013-04-18T04:01:00.003-07:002013-04-18T04:01:40.669-07:00May 2013 European PlayStation Plus Free Games Include Hitman: Absolution ... - PlayStation LifeStyle (blog)<strong>May 2013 European PlayStation Plus Free Games Include Hitman: Absolution ... - PlayStation LifeStyle (blog)</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="articleTextContent">
 
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 <p class="theByline">April 17, 2013 Written by Jason Dunning </p>
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 <p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-238111" alt="hitmanabsolutionscreenshot2" src="http://cdn1-www.playstationlifestyle.net/assets/uploads/2013/04/hitmanabsolutionscreenshot2.jpg" width="555" height="251" /></p> <p>The games joining <a title="Hitman: Absolution Free on EU PS+ in May, Declassified Sale Starts Today" href="http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2013/04/10/hitman-absolution-free-on-eu-ps-in-may-declassified-sale-starts-today/"><em>Hitman: Absolution</em></a><em> </em>this May in the European PlayStation Plus Instant Game Collection have been revealed, with two more PlayStation 3 titles and two PS Vita titles being added.</p> <p>To find out what they are and when theyâre arriving, see them all below:</p> <p><strong>Entering:</strong></p> <ul><li>Hitman: Absolution â" May 1st</li> <li>Catherine â" May 1st</li> <li>Malicious â" May 1st</li> <li>Sine Mora (PS Vita) â" May 8th</li> <li>Velocity Ultra â" <a title="May 2013 PlayStation 3, PlayStation Vita, PSP Video Game Release Date Page" href="http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/may-2013-playstation-3-playstation-vita-psp-video-game-release-date-page/">May 15th</a></li> </ul><p><strong>Leaving:</strong></p> <ul><li>Okami HD â" May 1st</li> <li>F1 Race Stars â" May 1st</li> <li>Quantum Conundrum â" May 1st</li> <li>Zero Escape: Virtueâs Last Reward â" May 8th</li> <li>Thomas Was Alone â" May 22nd</li> </ul><p>While undated at the moment, May will also bring PlayStation Plus discounts of 60% to <em>Back to the Future, Beyond Good and Evil</em>, and <em>Oddworld: Strangerâs Wrath HD </em>(<em />PS3 only at the moment).</p> <p>Which free game are you most excited for? Let us know in the comments below.</p> <p>[<a href="http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2013/04/17/playstation-plus-your-may-update/">Source</a>]</p> <p><span><strong>Essential Reading:</strong></span></p> <ul><li><a href="http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2013/04/16/dice-on-motion-controls-we-are-not-interested-in-things-that-dont-make-the-game-better/">DICE on Motion Controls: âWe are not Interested in Things That Donât Make the Game Betterâ</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2013/04/16/diggs-nightcrawler-out-may-29th-in-europe-holiday-in-north-america/">Diggs Nightcrawler out May 29th in Europe, âThis Holidayâ in North America</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2013/04/16/platinum-games-president-youll-see-us-on-the-ps4-eventually-bayonetta-didnt-sell-what-we-wanted-it-to-sell/">Platinum Games President: âYouâll see us on the PS4 Eventually,â âBayonetta Didnât Sell What we Wanted it to Sellâ</a></li> </ul></div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2013/04/17/may-2013-european-playstation-plus-free-games-include/">http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2013/04/17/may-2013-european-playstation-plus-free-games-include/</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-39578518647386047812013-04-18T04:01:00.001-07:002013-04-18T04:01:40.137-07:00iPad 'free' games: parents must know their controls on their devices, says ... - Telegraph.co.uk<strong>iPad 'free' games: parents must know their controls on their devices, says ... - Telegraph.co.uk</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="body"> <p> Figures suggest that eight out of 10 of the most popular games are now free to install but raise revenue through paid-for extras, with single purchases ranging from a few pence to more than £70. </p> <p> But the OFT claim that children are particularly vulnerable to the trend as they increasingly access the internet without parental supervision. </p> <p> Earlier this year, a five-year-old boy <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/9901637/Five-year-old-runs-up-1700-iPad-bill-in-ten-minutes.html"><strong>racked up a bill of £1,700</strong></a> playing a âfreeâ game on an iPad. </p> <p> Cavendish Elithorn, OFT senior director for goods and consumer, said: âWe are concerned that children and their parents could be subject to unfair pressure to purchase when they are playing games they thought were free, but which can actually run up substantial costs. </p> <p> âThe OFT is not seeking to ban in-game purchases, but the games industry must ensure it is complying with the relevant regulations so that children are protected. We are speaking to the industry and will take enforcement action if necessary.â </p> <p> According to officials, the OFT will investigate how companies providing free web or app-based games market their products to children. </p> <p> Parents and consumer groups will be asked to contact the watchdog with information about âpotentially misleading or commercially aggressive practicesâ in relation to these games. </p> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/apps/9990095/iPad-free-games-parents-must-know-their-controls-on-their-devices-says-Office-of-Fair-Trading.html">http://www.telegraph.co.uk/apps/9990095/iPad-free-games-parents-must-know-their-controls-on-their-devices-says-Office-of-Fair-Trading.html</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-54959291281433786752013-04-16T04:00:00.008-07:002013-04-16T04:01:06.952-07:00Giveaway â Guild Wars 2 free weekend preview keys - PC Gamer Magazine<strong>Giveaway â" Guild Wars 2 free weekend preview keys - PC Gamer Magazine</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="post-page" id="post-158486"> <!-- .post-meta-social --> <p><a href="http://media.pcgamer.com/files/2013/03/Guild-Wars-22.jpg" rel="lightbox[158486]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-150725" src="http://media.pcgamer.com/files/2013/03/Guild-Wars-22-610x342.jpg" alt="Guild Wars 2" width="610" height="342" /></a></p> <p>If you havenât dipped your toe into the world of Tyria yet, hereâs your chance to try it without having to pay the usual toe-dipping toll. Weâve got 10,000 codes to give away that will give you access to Guild Wars 2 at no charge from Friday the 19th until Monday the 21st. Read on to find out how to claim one!</p> <p>Your quest is to head over to the form on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/pcgamermagazine/app_174961479209942">our Facebook page</a> to get your code, enter it at <a href="https://register.guildwars2.com">https://register.guildwars2.com</a>, and download the trial client. Thatâs all! Your copy will become playable Friday at 12:01 a.m. Pacific time, and shuts off at 11:59 p.m. next Monday.</p> <p>If youâre wondering whether youâd get your click-some-links-and-free-up-some-hard-drive-space-worth, you can refer back to <a href="http://www.pcgamer.com/2012/09/06/guild-wars-2-review/">our Guild Wars 2 review</a>, and an editorial I wrote about <a href="http://www.pcgamer.com/2012/09/07/editorial-my-surprising-unlikely-love-affair-with-guild-wars-2s-pvp/">why I like ArenaNetâs PvP</a>.</p> <!-- #postTagList --> <!-- #articleSocialFooter --> <!-- Stumble Upon --> <!-- #googleAdYarrp --> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.pcgamer.com/2013/04/15/guild-wars-2-trial-key-giveaway/">http://www.pcgamer.com/2013/04/15/guild-wars-2-trial-key-giveaway/</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-9867116796636104172013-04-16T04:00:00.007-07:002013-04-16T04:00:45.305-07:00World of Tanks dev could bring free-to-play games to PS4, currently experimenting - VG247<strong>World of Tanks dev could bring free-to-play games to PS4, currently experimenting - VG247</strong><br/><br/><div><div id="content" class="article"> <div id="date-byline"> <a class="comment-count" href="http://www.vg247.com/2013/04/16/world-of-tanks-dev-could-bring-free-to-play-games-to-ps4-currently-experimenting/#comments"> 0 <img src="http://www.vg247.com/wp-content/themes/vg247/_images/comment-trail-alt.png" alt="comment-trail-alt" width="5" height="5" /></a> <div class="wpfp"><span class="wpfp-span"><img src="http://www.vg247.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-favorite-posts/img/loading.gif" alt="Loading" title="Loading" class="wpfp-hide wpfp-img" /><a class="wpfp-link" href="?wpfpaction=add&postid=358612" title="Add to My News" rel="nofollow">Add to My News</a></span></div> <p id="byline">Story by <a href="http://www.vg247.com/author/dave-cook/" title="Posts by Dave Cook">Dave Cook</a></p> </div> <p class="date">Tue, Apr 16, 2013 | 08:25 BST</p> <span class="social-buttons"> <span class="socialbutton"></span> <span class="socialbutton twitter"><a href="http://twitter.com/share" class="twitter-share-button">Tweet</a></span> <span class="socialbutton" /> </span> <p>World of Tanks developer Wargaming is currently experimenting with the notion of free-to-play on consoles, including PS4, but CEO Victor Kislyi has stressed that you will only see the companyâs games on consoles if the formats donât hamper the free-to-play experience.</p> <p><span id="more-358612" /></p> <p><img src="http://images.vg247.com/current//2013/04/Wargaming-logo.jpg" alt="" title="Wargaming logo" width="668" height="190" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-354269" /></p> <p>Speaking with <a href="http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2013-04-15-wargaming-ceo-hardware-should-not-constrain-the-player" target="_blank">GI.biz</a>, Kislyi discussed the companyâs acquisition of Gas Powered Games and Day 1, and suggested that itâs not yet clear exactly what both teams will be working on first.</p> <p>However, Kislyi isnât ruling out console releases for each game, but only if the architecture fits, âFree-to-play, which we are big advocates of, can be enjoyed on any hardware device,â he said. âThe hardware cannot constrain the player from getting the experience. </p> <p>âObviously with Day 1, we would like to expand our multi-platform venture. We donât have much experience working with consoles or mobile, but you should start one day. So we started with both Gas Powered and Day 1.â</p> <p>When asked if the PC-architecture of Sonyâs PS4 rig might sweeten the proposition of a console free-to-play title â" similar to CCP Gamesâ DUST 514 weâd wager â" Kislyi replied, âWe are still doing experiments. Itâs about selecting the most cool idea for the time being, seeing if itâs technologically possible, and then beginning prototyping and production. </p> <p>âNothing is clear, we recently acquired those two. We just think they are veteran teams making great games. We need to blend that with Wargamingâs free-to-play experience, financial muscle, publishing infrastructure, and the wisdom we have with how to monetize and how youâd rather not monetize.</p> <p>âRight now, we arenât doing anything for PlayStation 4, but nobody knows what the future holds for us. As I mentioned before, the free-to-play experience can be enjoyed on any device. We will see, and Day 1 will probably be helping us in that endeavour.</p> <p>âItâs all about the game, the platform alone will not do miracles. It has to be a good game concept. But we donât shut doors. Every possibility in the future, we have the power to review when it is reasonable.â</p> <p>Would you like to see Wargaming and its banner studios create a free-to-play console experience? What about PS4? Let us know below.</p> <div class="tags-share bottom"> <p class="post-tags"> <a class="comment-count" href="http://www.vg247.com/2013/04/16/world-of-tanks-dev-could-bring-free-to-play-games-to-ps4-currently-experimenting/#comments"> 0 <img src="http://www.vg247.com/wp-content/themes/vg247/_images/comment-trail-alt.png" alt="comment-trail-alt" width="5" height="5" /></a> Posted in: <a href="http://www.vg247.com/category/genres/free-to-play-genres/" title="View all posts in Free-to-Play">Free-to-Play</a>, <a href="http://www.vg247.com/category/pc/" title="View all posts in PC">PC</a>, <a href="http://www.vg247.com/category/uncategorized/sony/ps4/" title="View all posts in PS4">PS4</a> <br /><span class="entry-utility-prep entry-utility-prep-tag-links">Tags:</span> <a href="http://www.vg247.com/tag/day-1/" rel="tag">Day 1</a>, <a href="http://www.vg247.com/tag/gas-powered-games/" rel="tag">Gas Powered Games</a>, <a href="http://www.vg247.com/tag/victor-kislyi/" rel="tag">Victor Kislyi</a>, <a href="http://www.vg247.com/tag/wargaming/" rel="tag">Wargaming</a>, <a href="http://www.vg247.com/tag/world-of-tanks/" rel="tag">world of tanks</a> </p> </div> <span class="social-buttons bottom"> <span class="socialbutton"></span> <span class="socialbutton twitter"><a href="http://twitter.com/share" class="twitter-share-button">Tweet</a></span> <span class="socialbutton" /> </span> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.vg247.com/2013/04/16/world-of-tanks-dev-could-bring-free-to-play-games-to-ps4-currently-experimenting/">http://www.vg247.com/2013/04/16/world-of-tanks-dev-could-bring-free-to-play-games-to-ps4-currently-experimenting/</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-75512211569865309722013-04-16T04:00:00.005-07:002013-04-16T04:00:42.804-07:00iPad 'free' games: parents must know their controls on their devices, says ... - Telegraph.co.uk<strong>iPad 'free' games: parents must know their controls on their devices, says ... - Telegraph.co.uk</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="body"> <p> Figures suggest that eight out of 10 of the most popular games are now free to install but raise revenue through paid-for extras, with single purchases ranging from a few pence to more than £70. </p> <p> But the OFT claim that children are particularly vulnerable to the trend as they increasingly access the internet without parental supervision. </p> <p> Earlier this year, a five-year-old boy <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/9901637/Five-year-old-runs-up-1700-iPad-bill-in-ten-minutes.html"><strong>racked up a bill of £1,700</strong></a> playing a âfreeâ game on an iPad. </p> <p> Cavendish Elithorn, OFT senior director for goods and consumer, said: âWe are concerned that children and their parents could be subject to unfair pressure to purchase when they are playing games they thought were free, but which can actually run up substantial costs. </p> <p> âThe OFT is not seeking to ban in-game purchases, but the games industry must ensure it is complying with the relevant regulations so that children are protected. We are speaking to the industry and will take enforcement action if necessary.â </p> <p> According to officials, the OFT will investigate how companies providing free web or app-based games market their products to children. </p> <p> Parents and consumer groups will be asked to contact the watchdog with information about âpotentially misleading or commercially aggressive practicesâ in relation to these games. </p> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/apps/9990095/iPad-free-games-parents-must-know-their-controls-on-their-devices-says-Office-of-Fair-Trading.html">http://www.telegraph.co.uk/apps/9990095/iPad-free-games-parents-must-know-their-controls-on-their-devices-says-Office-of-Fair-Trading.html</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-56303873309014528232013-04-16T04:00:00.003-07:002013-04-16T04:00:41.300-07:00Wintry weather greets Canada Summer Games committee - Winnipeg Free Press<strong>Wintry weather greets Canada Summer Games committee - Winnipeg Free Press</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="article">
 <div class="large_article_img">
 <img src="http://media.winnipegfreepress.com/images/648*395/130415-_CANADA_GAMES_5_1656.jpg" alt="Canada Summer Games Bid Committee Chair Mariette Mulaire thanks 150 students from École Taché for their performance of 'O Canada.' The committee is touring the city, taking a look at the various sports and special events facilities. The site for the 2017 Canada Games could fall to Winnipeg. " title="Canada Summer Games Bid Committee Chair Mariette Mulaire thanks 150 students from École Taché for their performance of 'O Canada.' The committee is touring the city, taking a look at the various sports and special events facilities. The site for the 2017 Canada Games could fall to Winnipeg. " height="396" width="648" border="0" /><div class="captioninfo">
 <p class="enlarge">
 KEN GIGLIOTTI / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
 <a href="http://media.winnipegfreepress.com/images/130415-_CANADA_GAMES_5_1656.jpg" rel="lightbox" title="Canada Summer Games Bid Committee Chair Mariette Mulaire thanks 150 students from École Taché for their performance of 'O Canada.' The committee is touring the city, taking a look at the various sports and special events facilities. The site for the 2017 Canada Games could fall to Winnipeg. ">Enlarge Image</a>
 </p>
 <p>Canada Summer Games Bid Committee Chair Mariette Mulaire thanks 150 students from Ãcole Taché for their performance of 'O Canada.' The committee is touring the city, taking a look at the various sports and special events facilities. The site for the 2017 Canada Games could fall to Winnipeg. </p>
 </div> </div>
 
 
 <p>The flurries in the air was "snow big deal" for Winnipeg's bid committee for the 2017 Canada Summer Games.</p>
 <p>It was all about summer today as Winnipeg hopes to host the multi-sport games and has submitted a bid to bring the event, which will feature 20 different sports and about 5,000 youth athletes from across Canada, to the Manitoba capital in the summer of 2017.</p>
 
 
 
 <p>Amid the snow flurries in the air today, the local bid committee was a flurry of activity escorting the nine-member Canada Games Evaluation Commmittee around Winnipeg to show off its sports and cultural facilities.</p>
 <p>A bit of imagination was needed as a spring snow storm covered anything that was trying to be green with a blanket of the white stuff.</p>
 <p>"We know the warm sunshine will come from the personalities (in Manitoba), not the weather," said Wayne Carew, the Canada Games Council Bid Evaluation Committee Chair.</p>
 <p>Carew, who is from Prince Edward Island, noted the 2017 event will be the 50th Canada Games.</p>
 <p>"My role as chairman of the Bid Evaluation Committee is to take back a recommendation to our board, which will meet April 25-26, (as to) do the facilities throughout the community meet the national sports hosting guidelines," he said.</p>
 <p>The group toured the city with numerous stops which included a brief press conference at The Forks following a ceremonial drum performance by Four Directions Drummers and Ãcole Taché where bilingual students sang <em>O Canada</em>.</p>
 <p>Jeff Hnatiuk, Sport Manitoba CEO and president, said Winnipegâs written bid was submitted on April 5.</p>
 <p>"It would be a wonderful opportunity for our Manitoba athletes to compet on a national stage right here at home," Hnatiuk said, noting the bid includes upgrades to the track at the University of Manitoba Stadium and the Pan Am Pool.</p>
 <p>"Winnipeg would be one of the largest centres to be considered for the Canada Games."</p>
 <p>Brandon previously hosted the 1997 Canada Summer Games and the 1979 Winter Games.</p>
 <p>The 2013 Canada Summer Games will be held Aug. 2-17 at Sherbrooke, Que., while the 2015 Canada Winter Games are set for Prince George, B.c.</p>
 <p>Winnipeg does not have any competition for the 2017 Summer Games at this time but needs to impress the committee to earn the host rights.</p>
 <p>Carew said the Canada Games is the largest sporting event in Canada and a major stepping stone for future elite athletes.</p>
 <p>"Youâre going to be welcoming over 5,000 athletes from across the country and thatâs going to represent over 800 communities from across the nation, from coast to coast to coast. Manitobans will get a first-hand look at the next future Olympians and professional sports athletes."</p>
 <p>He said the 2012 London Olympic Games, half of Canadaâs Olympians and 47 per cent of the medal winners were former Canada Games athletes.</p>
 <p>"It does bring Canadians together."</p>
 <p>In a statement, Mayor Sam Katz stated the projected economic impact of the 2017 Canada Summer Games would be expected to rival that of Halifaxâs 2011 Canada Winter Games, where there was an impact in excess of $100 million.</p>
 <p><a href="mailto:ashley.prest@freepress.mb.ca">ashley.prest@freepress.mb.ca</a></p><p>
 </p><p>Twitter: @WFPAshleyPrest</p>
 <p> </p>
 </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/Wintry-weather-greets-Canada-Summer-Games-committee-203060151.html">http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/Wintry-weather-greets-Canada-Summer-Games-committee-203060151.html</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-25164056295698558562013-04-16T04:00:00.001-07:002013-04-16T04:00:40.969-07:00Office of Fair Trading Investigates Free-to-Play Games - Gameranx.com - Gameranx<strong>Office of Fair Trading Investigates Free-to-Play Games - Gameranx.com - Gameranx</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="left colorfff fontsize12 update_detail"> <p>
 <img alt="" src="http://www.gameranx.com/img/13-Apr/ea-the-simpsons-tapped-out-free-to-play.jpg" /></p>
 <p>
 The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) in the UK is <a href="http://www.oft.gov.uk/news-and-updates/press/2013/33-13#.UWwN1ivwLTN">investigating</a> free-to-play games, specifically âwhether children are being unfairly pressured or encouraged to pay for additional contentâ in such games. The announcement comes after a series of high-profile cases in the media of children who've spent hundreds or thousands of pounds â" in most cases apparently without realising they were even doing so â" on in-app purchases.</p>
 <p>
 Under the Consumer Protection (from Unfair Trading) Regulations 2008, âdirect exhortationsâ to children â" i.e. strongly encouraging them to make a purchase, or do something that will make them need to make a purchase, or ask an adult to make a purchase for them â" is unlawful. OFT Senior Director for Goods and Consumer Cavendish Elithorn said that the organisation isn't trying to ban in-app purchases but does want to make sure they're being used lawfully:</p>
 <blockquote>
 <p>
 âWe are concerned that children and their parents could be subject to unfair pressure to purchase when they are playing games they thought were free, but which can actually run up substantial costs.</p>
 <p>
 The OFT is not seeking to ban in-game purchases, but the games industry must ensure it is complying with the relevant regulations so that children are protected. We are speaking to the industry and will take enforcement action if necessary.â</p>
 </blockquote>
 <p>
 The OFT has written to companies that offer these games, and wants to talk to parents and consumer groups too about whether they've seen any âpotentially misleading or commercially aggressive practicesâ around these games.</p>
 <p>
 Do you think that in-app purchases as they currently stand are unlawful? Would you change them or get rid of them altogether?</p>
 </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.gameranx.com/updates/id/14016/article/office-of-fair-trading-investigates-free-to-play-games/">http://www.gameranx.com/updates/id/14016/article/office-of-fair-trading-investigates-free-to-play-games/</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-53744232329158857642013-04-15T04:01:00.003-07:002013-04-15T04:01:07.109-07:00iPad 'free' games: parents must know their controls on their devices, says ... - Telegraph.co.uk<strong>iPad 'free' games: parents must know their controls on their devices, says ... - Telegraph.co.uk</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="body"> <p> Figures suggest that eight out of 10 of the most popular games are now free to install but raise revenue through paid-for extras, with single purchases ranging from a few pence to more than £70. </p> <p> But the OFT claim that children are particularly vulnerable to the trend as they increasingly access the internet without parental supervision. </p> <p> Earlier this year, a five-year-old boy <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/9901637/Five-year-old-runs-up-1700-iPad-bill-in-ten-minutes.html"><strong>racked up a bill of £1,700</strong></a> playing a âfreeâ game on an iPad. </p> <p> Cavendish Elithorn, OFT senior director for goods and consumer, said: âWe are concerned that children and their parents could be subject to unfair pressure to purchase when they are playing games they thought were free, but which can actually run up substantial costs. </p> <p> âThe OFT is not seeking to ban in-game purchases, but the games industry must ensure it is complying with the relevant regulations so that children are protected. We are speaking to the industry and will take enforcement action if necessary.â </p> <p> According to officials, the OFT will investigate how companies providing free web or app-based games market their products to children. </p> <p> Parents and consumer groups will be asked to contact the watchdog with information about âpotentially misleading or commercially aggressive practicesâ in relation to these games. </p> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/apps/9990095/iPad-free-games-parents-must-know-their-controls-on-their-devices-says-Office-of-Fair-Trading.html">http://www.telegraph.co.uk/apps/9990095/iPad-free-games-parents-must-know-their-controls-on-their-devices-says-Office-of-Fair-Trading.html</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-78362480852808852052013-04-15T04:01:00.001-07:002013-04-15T04:01:05.510-07:00Kids running up bills on 'free games'? As usual, parents want the state to ... - Telegraph.co.uk (blog)<strong>Kids running up bills on 'free games'? As usual, parents want the state to ... - Telegraph.co.uk (blog)</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="entry"> <div id="attachment_100009020" class="wp-caption alignnone"><a href="http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/technology/files/2013/04/ipad_2344343b.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-100009020" title="The Office of Fair Trading has launched an investigation into "free" internet and app-based games amid fears children are being ripped off." src="http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/technology/files/2013/04/ipad_2344343b-460x288.jpg" alt="The Office of Fair Trading has launched an investigation into "free" internet and app-based games amid fears children are being ripped off." width="460" height="288" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Office of Fair Trading has launched an investigation into "free" internet and app-based games amid fears children are being ripped off</p></div> <p><strong><a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/video-games/video-game-news/9987568/OFT-launches-probe-into-misleading-free-iPad-games.html">There's a big furore being kicked up by a small group of parents who have been stupid enough to let their kids run up huge bills downloading paid for extras on free games</a></strong>. I have literally no sympathy with these people.</p> <p>One family, interviewed by the BBC, said they gave their seven-year-old son the password to spend more money, and get this â" he spent loads of money! Seventeen hundred quid, to be exact. If they gave him a seventeen hundred quid and left him in a toy shop, there's a strong chance they'd come back and find he'd bought a massive radio-controlled car or something. There wasn't even a problem, as Apple had refunded the family the money. Sounds like exemplary customer service to me.</p> <p>Equally, another aggrieved mum told the woeful tale of how her nine-year-old daughter had memorised her password, and used it to buy a £70 unicorn for a virtual zoo. I'm sorry, but if your child has the nous to memorise a password, she also should have the intelligence to know right from wrong. Another of her complaints was that "a unicorn shouldn't cost £70". Obviously this woman hasn't been shopping for toys recently; at Christmas this year, I dropped over £100 on an ugly plastic Monster High-branded dolls house.</p> <p>Frankly, I'd much rather have bought my niece and nephew virtual unicorns to ride. But of course, in mummy's eyes, little Jessica wasn't just a grasping, cunning little unicorn thief, she was a poor darling who had been abused by evil big corporations. These parents have now successfully lobbied the Office of Fair trading, who are launching a consultation.<</p> <p>The OFT don't have the power to ban games, all they can do is ask for a voluntary code of conduct. What will happen, as always with this sort of thing, is people who play by the rules will be penalised, and the unscrupulous people who are trying to rip off children won't sign up.</p> <p>I recently spoke to Paul Wedgewood, founder of a British company called <a href="http://www.splashdamage.com/" target="_blank">Splash Damage</a>, that makes free-to-play games. Their best selling title, <a href="http://www.warchest.com/games/radsoldiers" target="_blank">Rad Soldiers</a>, has gone to number one in 96 countries, without a penny being sent on marketing. It's a fun cartoony game, and I certainly enjoy it.</p> <p>I asked Paul about the development of free-to-play games, and the concerns people have around them. While he acknowledged people's fears were real, he put a different spin on the whole market of free gaming for me:</p> <blockquote><p>I grew up on a council estate â" when I was a kid, I couldn't afford games, and if I could afford one, it had to be really good. We try to be as ethical as possible with our games. We wanted something that was great, that could be played well by putting in time and little money; something that's completely free from the start.</p> <p>A lot of free to play games are over-monetised; that's partly because lots of them are developed in the far east, where people have a different view of how you should succeed at gaming. In the West, we tend to see that the person with the most skill should win, not the person with the most money.</p></blockquote> <p>That made me think about the future of gaming; the free-to-play gamer is a different person from the thirty something queuing up to buy a triple-A title like StarCraft 2 or Bioshock: Infinite. No-one is surprised to pay a fortune for a triple-A game â" after all, you are playing it on a machine costing several hundred pounds. Back in the 80s, games were cheap, and accessible to most people. As prices have ramped up, more and more people have been frozen out.</p> <p>The free to play gamer doesn't have a lot of cash â" they're often playing on a cheap smartphone or a borrowed tablet. That doesn't always mean kids â" it often means living in the developing world. Part of the reason we are seeing such a huge gaming boom on smartphones is because that gaming culture â" where everyone plays on their smartphone â" is coming over from Asia.</p> <p>It struck me that great British gaming firms like Splash Damage are already bending over backwards to get into this market ethically. And the more regulatory hoops they have to jump through, the more of the market will be left to predatory foreign developers.</p> <p>So, free to play isn't something sinister â" it's a gaming model that's unfamiliar, but one that works, and makes gaming more accessible. Parents who take the time to understand their child's hobbies, rather than just parking the kid on the sofa with a game to keep them quiet, will see it pay dividends. People who scream for the state to parent for them shouldn't be listened to.</p> <p>The answer, as ever, is good parenting, not government regulation.</p> <p><strong><a href="http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/technology/author/willardfoxton2/">Read more by Willard Foxton on Telegraph Blogs</a></strong><br /><strong><a href="http://bit.ly/Wkn9Zh">Follow Telegraph Blogs on Twitter</a> </strong></p> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/technology/willardfoxton2/100009019/kids-running-up-bills-on-free-games-as-usual-parents-want-the-state-to-take-responsibility-for-their-children/">http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/technology/willardfoxton2/100009019/kids-running-up-bills-on-free-games-as-usual-parents-want-the-state-to-take-responsibility-for-their-children/</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-215917076380366132013-04-14T04:03:00.005-07:002013-04-14T04:04:08.415-07:00iPad 'free' games: parents must know their controls on their devices, says ... - Telegraph.co.uk<strong>iPad 'free' games: parents must know their controls on their devices, says ... - Telegraph.co.uk</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="body"> <p> Figures suggest that eight out of 10 of the most popular games are now free to install but raise revenue through paid-for extras, with single purchases ranging from a few pence to more than £70. </p> <p> But the OFT claim that children are particularly vulnerable to the trend as they increasingly access the internet without parental supervision. </p> <p> Earlier this year, a five-year-old boy <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/9901637/Five-year-old-runs-up-1700-iPad-bill-in-ten-minutes.html"><strong>racked up a bill of £1,700</strong></a> playing a âfreeâ game on an iPad. </p> <p> Cavendish Elithorn, OFT senior director for goods and consumer, said: âWe are concerned that children and their parents could be subject to unfair pressure to purchase when they are playing games they thought were free, but which can actually run up substantial costs. </p> <p> âThe OFT is not seeking to ban in-game purchases, but the games industry must ensure it is complying with the relevant regulations so that children are protected. We are speaking to the industry and will take enforcement action if necessary.â </p> <p> According to officials, the OFT will investigate how companies providing free web or app-based games market their products to children. </p> <p> Parents and consumer groups will be asked to contact the watchdog with information about âpotentially misleading or commercially aggressive practicesâ in relation to these games. </p> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/apps/9990095/iPad-free-games-parents-must-know-their-controls-on-their-devices-says-Office-of-Fair-Trading.html">http://www.telegraph.co.uk/apps/9990095/iPad-free-games-parents-must-know-their-controls-on-their-devices-says-Office-of-Fair-Trading.html</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-22820772427419564262013-04-14T04:03:00.004-07:002013-04-14T04:04:08.141-07:00Kids running up bills on 'free games'? As usual, parents want the state to ... - Telegraph.co.uk (blog)<strong>Kids running up bills on 'free games'? As usual, parents want the state to ... - Telegraph.co.uk (blog)</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="entry"> <div id="attachment_100009020" class="wp-caption alignnone"><a href="http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/technology/files/2013/04/ipad_2344343b.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-100009020" title="The Office of Fair Trading has launched an investigation into "free" internet and app-based games amid fears children are being ripped off." src="http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/technology/files/2013/04/ipad_2344343b-460x288.jpg" alt="The Office of Fair Trading has launched an investigation into "free" internet and app-based games amid fears children are being ripped off." width="460" height="288" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Office of Fair Trading has launched an investigation into "free" internet and app-based games amid fears children are being ripped off</p></div> <p><strong><a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/video-games/video-game-news/9987568/OFT-launches-probe-into-misleading-free-iPad-games.html">There's a big furore being kicked up by a small group of parents who have been stupid enough to let their kids run up huge bills downloading paid for extras on free games</a></strong>. I have literally no sympathy with these people.</p> <p>One family, interviewed by the BBC, said they gave their seven-year-old son the password to spend more money, and get this â" he spent loads of money! Seventeen hundred quid, to be exact. If they gave him a seventeen hundred quid and left him in a toy shop, there's a strong chance they'd come back and find he'd bought a massive radio-controlled car or something. There wasn't even a problem, as Apple had refunded the family the money. Sounds like exemplary customer service to me.</p> <p>Equally, another aggrieved mum told the woeful tale of how her nine-year-old daughter had memorised her password, and used it to buy a £70 unicorn for a virtual zoo. I'm sorry, but if your child has the nous to memorise a password, she also should have the intelligence to know right from wrong. Another of her complaints was that "a unicorn shouldn't cost £70". Obviously this woman hasn't been shopping for toys recently; at Christmas this year, I dropped over £100 on an ugly plastic Monster High-branded dolls house.</p> <p>Frankly, I'd much rather have bought my niece and nephew virtual unicorns to ride. But of course, in mummy's eyes, little Jessica wasn't just a grasping, cunning little unicorn thief, she was a poor darling who had been abused by evil big corporations. These parents have now successfully lobbied the Office of Fair trading, who are launching a consultation.<</p> <p>The OFT don't have the power to ban games, all they can do is ask for a voluntary code of conduct. What will happen, as always with this sort of thing, is people who play by the rules will be penalised, and the unscrupulous people who are trying to rip off children won't sign up.</p> <p>I recently spoke to Paul Wedgewood, founder of a British company called <a href="http://www.splashdamage.com/" target="_blank">Splash Damage</a>, that makes free-to-play games. Their best selling title, <a href="http://www.warchest.com/games/radsoldiers" target="_blank">Rad Soldiers</a>, has gone to number one in 96 countries, without a penny being sent on marketing. It's a fun cartoony game, and I certainly enjoy it.</p> <p>I asked Paul about the development of free-to-play games, and the concerns people have around them. While he acknowledged people's fears were real, he put a different spin on the whole market of free gaming for me:</p> <blockquote><p>I grew up on a council estate â" when I was a kid, I couldn't afford games, and if I could afford one, it had to be really good. We try to be as ethical as possible with our games. We wanted something that was great, that could be played well by putting in time and little money; something that's completely free from the start.</p> <p>A lot of free to play games are over-monetised; that's partly because lots of them are developed in the far east, where people have a different view of how you should succeed at gaming. In the West, we tend to see that the person with the most skill should win, not the person with the most money.</p></blockquote> <p>That made me think about the future of gaming; the free-to-play gamer is a different person from the thirty something queuing up to buy a triple-A title like StarCraft 2 or Bioshock: Infinite. No-one is surprised to pay a fortune for a triple-A game â" after all, you are playing it on a machine costing several hundred pounds. Back in the 80s, games were cheap, and accessible to most people. As prices have ramped up, more and more people have been frozen out.</p> <p>The free to play gamer doesn't have a lot of cash â" they're often playing on a cheap smartphone or a borrowed tablet. That doesn't always mean kids â" it often means living in the developing world. Part of the reason we are seeing such a huge gaming boom on smartphones is because that gaming culture â" where everyone plays on their smartphone â" is coming over from Asia.</p> <p>It struck me that great British gaming firms like Splash Damage are already bending over backwards to get into this market ethically. And the more regulatory hoops they have to jump through, the more of the market will be left to predatory foreign developers.</p> <p>So, free to play isn't something sinister â" it's a gaming model that's unfamiliar, but one that works, and makes gaming more accessible. Parents who take the time to understand their child's hobbies, rather than just parking the kid on the sofa with a game to keep them quiet, will see it pay dividends. People who scream for the state to parent for them shouldn't be listened to.</p> <p>The answer, as ever, is good parenting, not government regulation.</p> <p><strong><a href="http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/technology/author/willardfoxton2/">Read more by Willard Foxton on Telegraph Blogs</a></strong><br /><strong><a href="http://bit.ly/Wkn9Zh">Follow Telegraph Blogs on Twitter</a> </strong></p> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/technology/willardfoxton2/100009019/kids-running-up-bills-on-free-games-as-usual-parents-want-the-state-to-take-responsibility-for-their-children/">http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/technology/willardfoxton2/100009019/kids-running-up-bills-on-free-games-as-usual-parents-want-the-state-to-take-responsibility-for-their-children/</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-33410124293092706012013-04-14T04:03:00.003-07:002013-04-14T04:03:56.679-07:00Buying A 3DSXL? Nintendo's Offering Free Games - MTV.com (blog)<strong>Buying A 3DSXL? Nintendo's Offering Free Games - MTV.com (blog)</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="entry"> <p><a href="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com//wp-content/uploads/multi/2013/04/professor-layton-and-the-miracle-mask.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-100330" alt="professor-layton-and-the-miracle-mask" src="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com//wp-content/uploads/multi/2013/04/professor-layton-and-the-miracle-mask.jpg" width="575" height="320" /></a></p> <p>Through the end of April, Nintendo is sweetening the deal on the 3DSXL if you buy and register one along with a copy of either "Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon" or "Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity." Picking up one of those titles and registering the whole shebang with Club Nintendo will entitle you to a free download of one of five 3DS titles:</p> <ul><li>Super Mario 3D Land</li> <li>Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask</li> <li>Art Academy: Lessons for Everyone!</li> <li>Star Fox 64 3D</li> <li>Freakyforms Deluxe: Your Creations, Alive!</li> </ul><p><span id="more-100327"></span></p> <p>From the official release:</p> <blockquote><p>REDMOND, Wash., April 10, 2013 - Nintendo is offering a special promotion for people who buy both a Nintendo 3DS XL system and either Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon or Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity. Anyone who registers a Nintendo 3DS XL system and either Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity or Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon with Club Nintendo between March 21 and April 30 will receive a code to download one of five Nintendo 3DS games for free: Super Mario 3D Land, Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask, Art Academy: Lessons for Everyone!, Star Fox 64 3D or Freakyforms Deluxe: Your Creations, Alive! For more information about Nintendo 3DS, visit http://www.nintendo.com/3ds.</p> <p>Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon for Nintendo 3DS is the well-received sequel to the original fan-favorite Luigi's Mansion. The game kicked off the Year of Luigi and follows Mario's timid brother as he captures ghosts, solves puzzles and collects treasure in multiple haunted mansions. Up to four players who each have their own systems and copies of the game can also play together in the game's new local and online multiplayer modes. Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon is available in retail stores and in the Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS. For more information about Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon, visit http://luigismansion.nintendo.com/.</p> <p>Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity is the next entry in the Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series, and the first for Nintendo 3DS. In the game, players can become one of five Pokémon and journey through dungeons that change each time a player enters, while also battling and interacting with other Pokémon. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity takes full advantage of the features of Nintendo 3DS, with wireless multiplayer for up to four players who each have their own systems and copies of the game, StreetPass functionality and special portals that lead to additional Mystery Dungeons that can be accessed by using the Nintendo 3DS camera.Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity is available in retail stores, and the full game and demo version are both available in the Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS. For more information about Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity, visit http://www.pokemon.com/MysteryDungeon.</p></blockquote> <p>[Source: <a href="http://www.gonintendo.com/?mode=viewstory&id=199970" target="_blank">GoNintendo</a>]</p> <p><strong>Related Posts:</strong></p> <p><a href="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2013/04/10/jetstream-dlc-for-metal-gear-rising-revengeance-in-screens/" target="_blank">'Jetstream' DLC For 'Metal Gear Rising Revengeance' In Screens</a><br /><a href="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2013/04/10/fist-face-fight-release-date-ios-android/" target="_blank">Punch Ninjas In The Face In 'Fist Face Fight' On April 18th</a></p> <p><em>--</em></p> <p><em>Follow <a href="http://twitter.com/mtvmultiplayer" target="_blank">@MTVMultiplayer</a> on Twitter and be sure to "like" us on <a href="http://facebook.com/mtvgeek" target="_blank">Facebook</a> for the best geek news about comics, toys, gaming and more! And donât forget to follow our video gaming and TV writer <a href="http://twitter.com/thecharleswebb" target="_blank">@TheCharlesWebb</a>.</em></p> <!-- SimpleReach Analytics Plugin Version: 0.0.1 --> <p class="tags"><b>Tags</b> <a href="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/tag/3ds-ds/" rel="tag">3DS / DS</a>, <a href="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/tag/luigis-mansion-dark-moon/" rel="tag">Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon</a>, <a href="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/tag/nintendo/" rel="tag">nintendo</a></p> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2013/04/10/buying-a-3dsxl-nintendos-offering-free-games/">http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2013/04/10/buying-a-3dsxl-nintendos-offering-free-games/</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-91829078960957401082013-04-14T04:03:00.001-07:002013-04-14T04:03:56.277-07:00Free-to-play games being investigated by UK government - Android Community<strong>Free-to-play games being investigated by UK government - Android Community</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="entry-content"> <p>Most of us have heard those horror stories about free-to-play games. They usually involve a parent handing a tablet or smartphone to a child with some free games installed. From here the child takes over and proceeds to run up a large bill on <a href="http://androidcommunity.com/tag/in-app-billing/">in-app purchases</a>. This seems to be a popular strategy, and in fact it was one that was recently adopted with EAâs release of <em><a href="http://androidcommunity.com/ea-announces-real-racing-3-graphics-are-amazing-20120803/">Real Racing 3</a></em>. </p> <p><img src="http://cdn.androidcommunity.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/real-racing-3-game-540x188.jpg" alt="real-racing-3-game" width="540" height="188" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-132099" /><br /><span id="more-132097" /></p> <p>Staying on the topic of <em>Real Racing 3</em> for a moment, a representative from <a href="http://androidcommunity.com/tag/ea/">EA</a> noted that the in-app opponents are a âvocal minority.â Anyway, while these games seem to be generally accepted by those doing the playing, it looks like The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) in London is going to be doing some investigating. They will be looking to see if these games are pressuring the users into making in-app purchases. Or more specifically, how these in-app purchases apply to children.</p> <p>The OFT has said that they are looking into whether these âgames include âdirect exhortationsâ to children.â Basically, that is to say, whether they present a âstrong encouragement to make a purchase, or to do something that will necessitate making a purchase, or to persuade their parents or other adults to make a purchase for them.â They key here, the OFT also made it clear they are not trying to ban games with in-app purchase.</p> <p>Instead they are more concerned with how they are presented to children. At this point they are making an effort to make sure the games industry is doing what they need to comply with the relevant regulations so that children are protected. So far nothing will be changing and at the moment, the OFT is speaking with the industry and has plans to âtake enforcement action if necessary.â</p> <p>[<a href="http://www.computerandvideogames.com/400629/free-to-play-schemes-could-be-unlawful-warns-office-of-fair-trading/">via</a> CVG]</p> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://androidcommunity.com/free-to-play-games-being-investigated-by-uk-government-20130412/">http://androidcommunity.com/free-to-play-games-being-investigated-by-uk-government-20130412/</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-23725858508434713482013-04-13T04:03:00.008-07:002013-04-13T04:04:55.281-07:00'Free' web games under investigation over exorbitant charges - Irish Independent<strong>'Free' web games under investigation over exorbitant charges - Irish Independent</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="row-a"> <div class="column double"> <h2 /> <!-- C-ON-TEXT_CONTENT_START --><div class="ctx_content"> <article class="w50 "><div class="full"> <div class="w67"> <div class="wrap"> <figure><div class="imgWrapper"> <img src="http://static.independent.ie/business/technology/article29190994.ece/ALTERNATES/h342/PANews_N0113831365691905994A_I1" height="342" alt="" title="The OFT is investigating hidden costs in so-called 'free' web and app-based games for children" /></div> <figcaption>The OFT is investigating hidden costs in so-called 'free' web and app-based games for children</figcaption></figure></div> </div></div> <p class="byline"> <strong>Josie Clarke</strong> â" 12 April 2013</p> <p> So-called "free" web and app-based games for children are under investigation following concerns that users can run up substantial costs.</p>'; document.write(s); return; } window.google_adnum = window.google_adnum || null; google_ad_client = "ca-pub-9024837700129787"; google_ad_output = "js"; google_ad_type = "text"; google_ad_channel = '9868211012,6682650729'; google_max_num_ads = '2'; google_skip = window.google_adnum; /* insert this snippet for each ad call */ </article></div></div> <p>Britain's Office of Fair Trading (OFT) said it was investigating whether children were being unfairly pressured or encouraged to pay for content in free games, such as upgraded membership or virtual currency in forms including coins, gems or fruit.</p><p>Typically, players can access only certain areas of these games for free and must pay for higher levels or features. The OFT has written to companies who offer such games asking them for information on how they market to children and is asking parents and consumer groups for information about potentially misleading or commercially aggressive practices.</p><p>The OFT's investigation will look into whether these games include "direct exhortations" to children, or strong encouragement to make a purchase, to do something that will require making a purchase, or to persuade their parents or other adults to make a purchase for them.</p><p>It will also consider whether the full cost of some of these games is made clear when th ey are downloaded or accessed, potentially leading children and parents to make decisions they may not have made if prices were more transparent at the start of the process.</p><p>OFT senior director for goods and consumer, Cavendish Elithorn, said: "We are concerned that children and their parents could be subject to unfair pressure to purchase when they are playing games they thought were free, but which can actually run up substantial costs. The OFT is not seeking to ban in-game purchases, but the games industry must ensure it is complying with the relevant regulations so that children are protected."</p><p>Martin Lewis, the founder of MoneySavingExpert.com, said it was "disappointing" that apps aimed at children have been allowed to charge "ridiculous amounts" for extra features. He pointed to one game, My Little Pony, which he said charged users £69 for some in-app purchases.</p><p>Mr Lewis said: "When games such as My Little Pony, which are obviously targeted at young children, bait kids with £69 purchases of a 'mountain of gems', something is going wrong in the system. As always, an OFT investigation, even if it does advise action, will take time. So the most important message meanwhile is to protect yourself."</p><p>MoneySavingExpert.com said case studies reported on its forum included a seven-year-old who racked up a £69.99 bill on the College Girl app, a parent who was unaware their five-year-old had spent £65 on in-app purchases and a child who spent £80 on the Tiny Pets app.</p><p>Which? executive director Richard Lloyd said: "It's far too easy for children to run up huge bills on phone apps when most default settings allow 'in-app purchases' without asking for a confirmation or password. If your child has run up a huge bill without your knowledge, contact the app store or manufacturer as you may be eligible for a refund."</p></div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.independent.ie/business/technology/free-web-g ames-under-investigation-over-exorbitant-charges-29191789.html">http://www.independent.ie/business/technology/free-web-games-under-investigation-over-exorbitant-charges-29191789.html</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-80940434030495646012013-04-13T04:03:00.007-07:002013-04-13T04:03:39.959-07:00iPad 'free' games: parents must know their controls on their devices, says ... - Telegraph.co.uk<strong>iPad 'free' games: parents must know their controls on their devices, says ... - Telegraph.co.uk</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="body"> <p> Figures suggest that eight out of 10 of the most popular games are now free to install but raise revenue through paid-for extras, with single purchases ranging from a few pence to more than £70. </p> <p> But the OFT claim that children are particularly vulnerable to the trend as they increasingly access the internet without parental supervision. </p> <p> Earlier this year, a five-year-old boy <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/9901637/Five-year-old-runs-up-1700-iPad-bill-in-ten-minutes.html"><strong>racked up a bill of £1,700</strong></a> playing a âfreeâ game on an iPad. </p> <p> Cavendish Elithorn, OFT senior director for goods and consumer, said: âWe are concerned that children and their parents could be subject to unfair pressure to purchase when they are playing games they thought were free, but which can actually run up substantial costs. </p> <p> âThe OFT is not seeking to ban in-game purchases, but the games industry must ensure it is complying with the relevant regulations so that children are protected. We are speaking to the industry and will take enforcement action if necessary.â </p> <p> According to officials, the OFT will investigate how companies providing free web or app-based games market their products to children. </p> <p> Parents and consumer groups will be asked to contact the watchdog with information about âpotentially misleading or commercially aggressive practicesâ in relation to these games. </p> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/apps/9990095/iPad-free-games-parents-must-know-their-controls-on-their-devices-says-Office-of-Fair-Trading.html">http://www.telegraph.co.uk/apps/9990095/iPad-free-games-parents-must-know-their-controls-on-their-devices-says-Office-of-Fair-Trading.html</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-3385564110194632382013-04-13T04:03:00.005-07:002013-04-13T04:03:38.123-07:00Kids running up bills on 'free games'? As usual, parents want the state to ... - Telegraph.co.uk (blog)<strong>Kids running up bills on 'free games'? As usual, parents want the state to ... - Telegraph.co.uk (blog)</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="entry"> <div id="attachment_100009020" class="wp-caption alignnone"><a href="http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/technology/files/2013/04/ipad_2344343b.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-100009020" title="The Office of Fair Trading has launched an investigation into "free" internet and app-based games amid fears children are being ripped off." src="http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/technology/files/2013/04/ipad_2344343b-460x288.jpg" alt="The Office of Fair Trading has launched an investigation into "free" internet and app-based games amid fears children are being ripped off." width="460" height="288" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Office of Fair Trading has launched an investigation into "free" internet and app-based games amid fears children are being ripped off</p></div> <p><strong><a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/video-games/video-game-news/9987568/OFT-launches-probe-into-misleading-free-iPad-games.html">There's a big furore being kicked up by a small group of parents who have been stupid enough to let their kids run up huge bills downloading paid for extras on free games</a></strong>. I have literally no sympathy with these people.</p> <p>One family, interviewed by the BBC, said they gave their seven-year-old son the password to spend more money, and get this â" he spent loads of money! Seventeen hundred quid, to be exact. If they gave him a seventeen hundred quid and left him in a toy shop, there's a strong chance they'd come back and find he'd bought a massive radio-controlled car or something. There wasn't even a problem, as Apple had refunded the family the money. Sounds like exemplary customer service to me.</p> <p>Equally, another aggrieved mum told the woeful tale of how her nine-year-old daughter had memorised her password, and used it to buy a £70 unicorn for a virtual zoo. I'm sorry, but if your child has the nous to memorise a password, she also should have the intelligence to know right from wrong. Another of her complaints was that "a unicorn shouldn't cost £70". Obviously this woman hasn't been shopping for toys recently; at Christmas this year, I dropped over £100 on an ugly plastic Monster High-branded dolls house.</p> <p>Frankly, I'd much rather have bought my niece and nephew virtual unicorns to ride. But of course, in mummy's eyes, little Jessica wasn't just a grasping, cunning little unicorn thief, she was a poor darling who had been abused by evil big corporations. These parents have now successfully lobbied the Office of Fair trading, who are launching a consultation.<</p> <p>The OFT don't have the power to ban games, all they can do is ask for a voluntary code of conduct. What will happen, as always with this sort of thing, is people who play by the rules will be penalised, and the unscrupulous people who are trying to rip off children won't sign up.</p> <p>I recently spoke to Paul Wedgewood, founder of a British company called <a href="http://www.splashdamage.com/" target="_blank">Splash Damage</a>, that makes free-to-play games. Their best selling title, <a href="http://www.warchest.com/games/radsoldiers" target="_blank">Rad Soldiers</a>, has gone to number one in 96 countries, without a penny being sent on marketing. It's a fun cartoony game, and I certainly enjoy it.</p> <p>I asked Paul about the development of free-to-play games, and the concerns people have around them. While he acknowledged people's fears were real, he put a different spin on the whole market of free gaming for me:</p> <blockquote><p>I grew up on a council estate â" when I was a kid, I couldn't afford games, and if I could afford one, it had to be really good. We try to be as ethical as possible with our games. We wanted something that was great, that could be played well by putting in time and little money; something that's completely free from the start.</p> <p>A lot of free to play games are over-monetised; that's partly because lots of them are developed in the far east, where people have a different view of how you should succeed at gaming. In the West, we tend to see that the person with the most skill should win, not the person with the most money.</p></blockquote> <p>That made me think about the future of gaming; the free-to-play gamer is a different person from the thirty something queuing up to buy a triple-A title like StarCraft 2 or Bioshock: Infinite. No-one is surprised to pay a fortune for a triple-A game â" after all, you are playing it on a machine costing several hundred pounds. Back in the 80s, games were cheap, and accessible to most people. As prices have ramped up, more and more people have been frozen out.</p> <p>The free to play gamer doesn't have a lot of cash â" they're often playing on a cheap smartphone or a borrowed tablet. That doesn't always mean kids â" it often means living in the developing world. Part of the reason we are seeing such a huge gaming boom on smartphones is because that gaming culture â" where everyone plays on their smartphone â" is coming over from Asia.</p> <p>It struck me that great British gaming firms like Splash Damage are already bending over backwards to get into this market ethically. And the more regulatory hoops they have to jump through, the more of the market will be left to predatory foreign developers.</p> <p>So, free to play isn't something sinister â" it's a gaming model that's unfamiliar, but one that works, and makes gaming more accessible. Parents who take the time to understand their child's hobbies, rather than just parking the kid on the sofa with a game to keep them quiet, will see it pay dividends. People who scream for the state to parent for them shouldn't be listened to.</p> <p>The answer, as ever, is good parenting, not government regulation.</p> <p><strong><a href="http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/technology/author/willardfoxton2/">Read more by Willard Foxton on Telegraph Blogs</a></strong><br /><strong><a href="http://bit.ly/Wkn9Zh">Follow Telegraph Blogs on Twitter</a> </strong></p> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/technology/willardfoxton2/100009019/kids-running-up-bills-on-free-games-as-usual-parents-want-the-state-to-take-responsibility-for-their-children/">http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/technology/willardfoxton2/100009019/kids-running-up-bills-on-free-games-as-usual-parents-want-the-state-to-take-responsibility-for-their-children/</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-81859058354030568362013-04-13T04:03:00.003-07:002013-04-13T04:03:34.573-07:00Watchdog investigating whether free app games target children for commercial ... - Raw Story<strong>Watchdog investigating whether free app games target children for commercial ... - Raw Story</strong><br/><br/><div><div id="post-518528" class="post-518528 post type-post status-publish format-standard hentry category-hot-off-the-wires category-biz-tech tag-office-of-fair-trading tag-oft tag-watchdog entry">
 
 
 
 
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 <ul id="sharebar"><li><span class="st_facebook_vcount"></span></li><li><a href="http://twitter.com/share" class="twitter-share-button">Tweet</a></li><li></li><li></li><li></li><li><a href="mailto:?subject=http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/04/12/watchdog-investigating-whether-free-app-games-target-children-for-commercial-gains/" class="sharebar-button email">Email</a></li></ul><ul id="sharebarx"><li><span class="st_facebook_hcount"></span></li><li><a href="http://twitter.com/share" class="twitter-share-button">Tweet</a></li><li></li><li></li><li></li><li><a href="mailto:?subject=http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/04/12/watchdog-investigating-whether-free-app-games-target-children-for-commercial-gains/" class="sharebar-button email">Email</a></li></ul><p>A watchdog has launched an investigation into whether children face âunfair pressureâ to spend money on apparently free web and app-based games, it said Friday.</p> <p>The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) is asking parents to get in touch with any examples of possible âcommercially aggressiveâ practices which encourage children to buy virtual currency like coins, gems or fruit, or upgraded membership.</p> <p>It is unlawful to make a âdirect exhortationâ to children to make a purchase or persuade their parents to do so under consumer protection regulations.</p> <p></p><p>âWe are concerned that children and their parents could be subject to unfair pressure to purchase when they are playing games they thought were free, but which can actually run up substantial costs,â said Cavendish Elthorne, the OFTâs senior director for goods and consumer.</p> <p>âThe OFT is not seeking to ban in-game purchases, but the games industry must ensure it is complying with the relevant regulations so that children are protected.</p> <p>âWe are speaking to the industry and will take enforcement action if necessary.â</p> <p><em>["Two Brothers Playing On Tablet, Indoor" on <a href="http://tinyurl.com/cp774ox" target="_blank">Shutterstock</a>]</em></p> 
 
 
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 </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/04/12/watchdog-investigating-whether-free-app-games-target-children-for-commercial-gains/">http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/04/12/watchdog-investigating-whether-free-app-games-target-children-for-commercial-gains/</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-44311591421871367222013-04-13T04:03:00.001-07:002013-04-13T04:03:26.462-07:00Free Games and Sales: Fruit Ninja, Stellar Impact and more! - Gamezebo<strong>Free Games and Sales: Fruit Ninja, Stellar Impact and more! - Gamezebo</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="page_reviewbox_content_details font14"> <div class="fltleft gaprt20 gapbot20"><img /><img src="http://2a34166a1c224507ff54-79590be14f37a3e58649da10f58ee927.r67.cf1.rackcdn.com/news/game_title_image/1365783957.jpg" /></div> <p></p><p>Bundles bundles bundles! If I were to sum up this weekendâs game deals in a single word, I think we all know what that would be: superfluous! err⦠I mean⦠bundles!</p><p>A game jam bundle for charity, a sci-fi bundle for strategy fans, a new Indie Royale bundle â" SO MANY BUNDLES. And if bundles arenât your thing, there are some great deals on iOS games this weekend. For example: who doesnât want to grab <em>Fruit Ninja</em> for free? Or <em>Tiki Towers 2</em>?</p><p>If we missed any great deals, donât forget to let us know in the comments below!</p><p> </p><p><a class="gallery colorbox-load" title="news" href="http://2a34166a1c224507ff54-79590be14f37a3e58649da10f58ee927.r67.cf1.rackcdn.com/news/full/1365783489.jpg"><img alt="news" width="400" /><img src="http://2a34166a1c224507ff54-79590be14f37a3e58649da10f58ee927.r67.cf1.rackcdn.com/news/medium/1365783487.jpg" alt="news" width="400" /></a></p><p><strong>iOS Game Deals</strong></p><p><em><a hr ef="https://itunes.apple.com/app/fruit-ninja/id362949845?ign-mpt=uo%3D5">Fruit Ninja</a></em> â" FREE (<a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/fruit-ninja/review">review</a>)<br /><em><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/app/fruit-ninja-hd/id370066032?ign-mpt=uo%3D5">Fruit Ninja HD</a></em> â" FREE (<a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/fruit-ninja/review">review</a>)<br /><em><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/app/fetch/id596209295?ign-mpt=uo%3D5">Fetch</a></em> - $3.99 (<a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/fetch/review">review</a>)<br /><em><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/app/lili/id560692867?ign-mpt=uo%3D5">Lili</a></em> - $0.99 (<a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/lili/review">review</a>)<br /><em><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/app/nightmerica-usn/id596231696?ign-mpt=uo%3D5">Nightmerica</a></em> â" FREE (<a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/nightmerica/review">review</a>)<br /><em><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/app/epoch./id453164597?ign-mpt=uo%3D5">EPOCH</ a></em> â" FREE (<a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/epoch/review">review</a>)<br /><em><a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/bad-air-day/review">Bad Air Day</a></em> â" FREE (<a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/bad-air-day/review">review</a>)<br /><em><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/app/tiki-towers-2/id411884364?ign-mpt=uo%3D5">Tiki Towers 2</a></em> â" FREE (<a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/tiki-towers-2/review">review</a>)<br /><em><a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/blocks-cometh/review">The Blocks Cometh</a></em> â" FREE (<a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/blocks-cometh/review">review</a>)</p><p> </p><p><a class="gallery colorbox-load" title="news" href="http://2a34166a1c224507ff54-79590be14f37a3e58649da10f58ee927.r67.cf1.rackcdn.com/news/full/1365783572.jpg"><img alt="news" width="400" /><img src="http://2a34166a1c224507ff54-79590be14f37a3e58649da10f58ee927.r67.cf1.rackcdn.com/news/medium/1365783571.jpg" alt="news" width="400" /></a></p><p><s trong><a href="http://www.shinyloot.com/sci-fi-rts-bundle">Shiny Loot: Sci-Fi Real Time Strategy Bundle</a> (FRIDAY ONLY)</strong></p><p>Pay $6.44 and get the following games;</p><p><em>Stellar Impact</em> (<a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/stellar-impact/review">review</a>)<em><br /> Sentinel 3: Homeworld<br /> Blue Libra<br /> Unstoppable Gorg</em> (<a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/unstoppable-gorg/review">review</a>)<em><br /> Direct Hit</em></p><p> </p><p><a class="gallery colorbox-load" title="news" href="http://2a34166a1c224507ff54-79590be14f37a3e58649da10f58ee927.r67.cf1.rackcdn.com/news/full/1365783621.jpg"><img alt="news" width="400" /><img src="http://2a34166a1c224507ff54-79590be14f37a3e58649da10f58ee927.r67.cf1.rackcdn.com/news/medium/1365783620.jpg" alt="news" width="400" /></a></p><p><strong><a href="https://indiegamestand.com/">Brunel Charity Game Jam Bundle</a></strong></p><p>Pay what you want to get 12 games made during a 30 hours game jam in Lond on, with all proceeds going to the charity Childâs Play;</p><p><em>Medieval Retrieval<br /> LawnRunner<br /> Zen<br /> Origins of Simon<br /> level.break<br /> St. George and the Dragon<br /> Time Keepers<br /> Wave Slice<br /> Chenetics<br /> Go to Bed<br /> Mutiny on the Pie Chaser<br /> Protector of the Sea</em></p><p> </p><p><a class="gallery colorbox-load" title="news" href="http://2a34166a1c224507ff54-79590be14f37a3e58649da10f58ee927.r67.cf1.rackcdn.com/news/full/1365783748.jpg"><img alt="news" width="400" /><img src="http://2a34166a1c224507ff54-79590be14f37a3e58649da10f58ee927.r67.cf1.rackcdn.com/news/medium/1365783747.jpg" alt="news" width="400" /></a></p><p><strong><a href="http://www.indieroyale.com/">Indie Royale â" The Spring Sun Bundle</a></strong></p><p>Pay more than the average price and get;</p><p><em>Knytt Underground<br /> The Real Texas<br /> Monday Night Combat<br /> SATAZIUS<br /> Gentrieve 2</em></p><p> </p><p><a class="gallery colorbox-load" title ="news" href="http://2a34166a1c224507ff54-79590be14f37a3e58649da10f58ee927.r67.cf1.rackcdn.com/news/full/1365783824.jpg"><img alt="news" width="400" /><img src="http://2a34166a1c224507ff54-79590be14f37a3e58649da10f58ee927.r67.cf1.rackcdn.com/news/medium/1365783822.jpg" alt="news" width="400" /></a></p><p><strong><a href="http://www.bundlestars.com/">Bundle Stars Bundle #6: Catnip</a></strong></p><p>Pay more than the average price and get;</p><p><em>Pushcat<br /> Metal Drift<br /> Wasteland Angel<br /> Obulis<br /> Nikopol</em> (<a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/nikopol-secrets-immortals/review">review</a>)<em><br /> Chains<br /> Post Mortem</em> (<a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/post-mortem/review">review</a>)<em><br /> Avencast: Rise of the Mage<br /> Scratches</em> (<a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/games/scratches-directors-cut/review">review</a>)<em><br /></em>unannounced bonus game</p><p> </p><p><a class="gallery colorbox-load" title="news" href="http://2a341 66a1c224507ff54-79590be14f37a3e58649da10f58ee927.r67.cf1.rackcdn.com/news/full/1365783870.jpg"><img alt="news" width="400" /><img src="http://2a34166a1c224507ff54-79590be14f37a3e58649da10f58ee927.r67.cf1.rackcdn.com/news/medium/1365783870.jpg" alt="news" width="400" /></a></p><p><strong>Other Game Deals</strong></p><p><a href="http://www.gog.com/promo/interplay_weekend_promo_120413?pp=827bfc458708f0b442009c9c9836f7e4b65557fb">60% off Interplay games</a> (GOG.com)<br /><em><a href="http://store.steampowered.com/app/220260/">Farming Simulator 2013</a></em> - $13.99 (50% off, Steam)<br /><em><a href="http://www.desura.com/games/8-bit-night">8-Bit Night</a></em> - $2.49 (50% off, Desura)<br /><em><a href="http://www.desura.com/games/revenge-of-roger-rouge">Revenge of Roger Rogue</a></em> - $1.49 (50% off, Desura)</p> <div> <br /><div class="next-previous"> <ul class="np_ul"><li class="prev"> <a href="/games/farm-heroes-saga/review" class="previous"> <span class="pre">PREVIOUS ARTICLE</span> <p>Farm Heroes Saga Review</p></a> </li> <li class="next"> <a href="/games/dungeon-hunter-4/review" class="next"> <span class="nex">NEXT ARTICLE</span> <p>Dungeon Hunter 4 Review</p></a> </li> </ul></div> <br /></div> <p class="tags"> <strong>Read more:</strong> <a href="/tag/sales">Sales</a> </p> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.gamezebo.com/news/2013/04/12/free-games-and-sales-fruit-ninja-stellar-impact-and-more">http://www.gamezebo.com/news/2013/04/12/free-games-and-sales-fruit-ninja-stellar-impact-and-more</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-76248708086371138192013-04-12T04:00:00.009-07:002013-04-12T04:00:57.351-07:00UK government opens investigation into free games, in-app purchases aimed at ... - The Verge<strong>UK government opens investigation into free games, in-app purchases aimed at ... - The Verge</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="article-body instapaper_body entry-content"> <p>The UK government has opened an investigation into whether children are being unfairly targeted in free games and with in-app purchases. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.oft.gov.uk/news-and-updates/press/2013/33-13#.UWey9KtARXc">The Office of Fair Trading (OFT)</a>, has said it will look into whether game developers are "potentially misleading" children or adopting "commercially aggressive practices" to pressure them into making purchases for free games on mobile devices or the web. The OFT is the UK's consumer and competition authority â" <a href="http://www.theverge.com/2012/2/16/2802545/ftc-report-child-privacy-data-collection-mobile-apps">similar to the FTC in the US</a> â" and has previously investigated (and approved) <a href="http://www.theverge.com/2012/8/14/3241621/facebook-instagram-purchase-cleared-uk-office-fair-trading">Facebook's $1 billion acquisition of Instagram</a>.</p>
 <!-- extended entry --> 
 <hr class="widget_boundry_marker hidden page_break" /><p>The OFT has written to companies offering such games, also reaching out to parents and consumer groups. If a game is found to include triggers that necessitate making a purchase or forces a parent to buy something for a child, its creators could be infringing consumer protection laws. The investigation will look into upgraded membership statuses and virtual currency such as coins, gems or fruit. </p>
 <p><q class="center">The OFT isn't seeking to ban in-app purchases, but will take enforcement action if necessary</q></p>
 <p>As part of its investigation, the OFT will launch a probe into whether game and app makers are clearly advertising the full cost of a game when it is played or downloaded. While it says it doesn't seek to ban in-app purchases, the UK watchdog says it will ensure that the industry is complying with consumer regulations and will "take enforcement action if necessary."</p> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.theverge.com/2013/4/12/4216044/oft-opens-probe-into-in-app-purchases-aimed-at-children">http://www.theverge.com/2013/4/12/4216044/oft-opens-probe-into-in-app-purchases-aimed-at-children</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-41778845818069532652013-04-12T04:00:00.007-07:002013-04-12T04:00:56.665-07:00Buying A 3DSXL? Nintendo's Offering Free Games - MTV.com (blog)<strong>Buying A 3DSXL? Nintendo's Offering Free Games - MTV.com (blog)</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="entry"> <p><a href="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com//wp-content/uploads/multi/2013/04/professor-layton-and-the-miracle-mask.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-100330" alt="professor-layton-and-the-miracle-mask" src="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com//wp-content/uploads/multi/2013/04/professor-layton-and-the-miracle-mask.jpg" width="575" height="320" /></a></p> <p>Through the end of April, Nintendo is sweetening the deal on the 3DSXL if you buy and register one along with a copy of either "Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon" or "Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity." Picking up one of those titles and registering the whole shebang with Club Nintendo will entitle you to a free download of one of five 3DS titles:</p> <ul><li>Super Mario 3D Land</li> <li>Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask</li> <li>Art Academy: Lessons for Everyone!</li> <li>Star Fox 64 3D</li> <li>Freakyforms Deluxe: Your Creations, Alive!</li> </ul><p><span id="more-100327"></span></p> <p>From the official release:</p> <blockquote><p>REDMOND, Wash., April 10, 2013 - Nintendo is offering a special promotion for people who buy both a Nintendo 3DS XL system and either Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon or Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity. Anyone who registers a Nintendo 3DS XL system and either Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity or Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon with Club Nintendo between March 21 and April 30 will receive a code to download one of five Nintendo 3DS games for free: Super Mario 3D Land, Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask, Art Academy: Lessons for Everyone!, Star Fox 64 3D or Freakyforms Deluxe: Your Creations, Alive! For more information about Nintendo 3DS, visit http://www.nintendo.com/3ds.</p> <p>Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon for Nintendo 3DS is the well-received sequel to the original fan-favorite Luigi's Mansion. The game kicked off the Year of Luigi and follows Mario's timid brother as he captures ghosts, solves puzzles and collects treasure in multiple haunted mansions. Up to four players who each have their own systems and copies of the game can also play together in the game's new local and online multiplayer modes. Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon is available in retail stores and in the Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS. For more information about Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon, visit http://luigismansion.nintendo.com/.</p> <p>Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity is the next entry in the Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series, and the first for Nintendo 3DS. In the game, players can become one of five Pokémon and journey through dungeons that change each time a player enters, while also battling and interacting with other Pokémon. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity takes full advantage of the features of Nintendo 3DS, with wireless multiplayer for up to four players who each have their own systems and copies of the game, StreetPass functionality and special portals that lead to additional Mystery Dungeons that can be accessed by using the Nintendo 3DS camera.Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity is available in retail stores, and the full game and demo version are both available in the Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS. For more information about Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity, visit http://www.pokemon.com/MysteryDungeon.</p></blockquote> <p>[Source: <a href="http://www.gonintendo.com/?mode=viewstory&id=199970" target="_blank">GoNintendo</a>]</p> <p><strong>Related Posts:</strong></p> <p><a href="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2013/04/10/jetstream-dlc-for-metal-gear-rising-revengeance-in-screens/" target="_blank">'Jetstream' DLC For 'Metal Gear Rising Revengeance' In Screens</a><br /><a href="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2013/04/10/fist-face-fight-release-date-ios-android/" target="_blank">Punch Ninjas In The Face In 'Fist Face Fight' On April 18th</a></p> <p><em>--</em></p> <p><em>Follow <a href="http://twitter.com/mtvmultiplayer" target="_blank">@MTVMultiplayer</a> on Twitter and be sure to "like" us on <a href="http://facebook.com/mtvgeek" target="_blank">Facebook</a> for the best geek news about comics, toys, gaming and more! And donât forget to follow our video gaming and TV writer <a href="http://twitter.com/thecharleswebb" target="_blank">@TheCharlesWebb</a>.</em></p> <!-- SimpleReach Analytics Plugin Version: 0.0.1 --> <p class="tags"><b>Tags</b> <a href="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/tag/3ds-ds/" rel="tag">3DS / DS</a>, <a href="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/tag/luigis-mansion-dark-moon/" rel="tag">Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon</a>, <a href="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/tag/nintendo/" rel="tag">nintendo</a></p> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2013/04/10/buying-a-3dsxl-nintendos-offering-free-games/">http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2013/04/10/buying-a-3dsxl-nintendos-offering-free-games/</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-60756990105145434092013-04-12T04:00:00.005-07:002013-04-12T04:00:56.224-07:00Free games for your Windows Phone powered Nokia Lumia - NokNok.tv<strong>Free games for your Windows Phone powered Nokia Lumia - NokNok.tv</strong><br/><br/><div><article> <div class="post-meta group"> <p class="byline single">By <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/author/mikey-bee/" title="Posts by Mike Browne" rel="author">Mike Browne</a> on April 12, 2013 11:30 am</p> <a class="comments right" href="http://www.noknok.tv/2013/04/12/free-games-for-your-windows-phone-powered-nokia-lumia/#comments">Comments<span><span class="dsq-postid">0</span></span></a> <div class="tags">Tagged with: <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/apps/" rel="nofollow tag">Apps</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/fragger/" rel="nofollow tag">Fragger</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/gravity-guy/" rel="nofollow tag">Gravity Guy</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/istunt-2/" rel="nofollow tag">iStunt 2</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/monster-island/" rel="nofollow tag">Monster Island</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/nokia-collection/" rel="nofollow tag">Nokia Collection</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/nokia-lumia-510/" rel="nofollow tag">Nokia Lumia 510</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/nokia-lumia-520/" rel="nofollow tag">Nokia Lumia 520</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/nokia-lumia-610/" rel="nofollow tag">Nokia Lumia 610</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/nokia-lumia-620/" rel="nofollow tag">Nokia Lumia 620</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/nokia-lumia-710/" rel="nofollow tag">Nokia Lumia 710</a>, <a hr ef="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/nokia-lumia-720/" rel="nofollow tag">Nokia Lumia 720</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/nokia-lumia-800/" rel="nofollow tag">Nokia Lumia 800</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/nokia-lumia-820/" rel="nofollow tag">Nokia Lumia 820</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/nokia-lumia-900/" rel="nofollow tag">Nokia Lumia 900</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/nokia-lumia-920/" rel="nofollow tag">Nokia Lumia 920</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/windows-phone-7-8/" rel="nofollow tag">Windows Phone 7.8</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/windows-phone-8/" rel="nofollow tag">Windows Phone 8</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/tag/windows-phone-store/" rel="nofollow tag">Windows Phone Store</a><br /></div> </div> <p><a href="http://www.noknok.tv/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/free-windows-phone-games.jpg?9d7bd4"><img src="http://www.noknok.tv/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/free-windows-phone-games-300x300.jpg?9d7bd4" alt="free-windows-phone-games" width="300" height="300" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-62525" /></a>Microsoft has announced that Miniclips is offering you the chance to download four great games for Windows Phone 8 and Windows Phone 7.x on your Nokia Lumia free of charge. Youâve only got a limited amount of time, so best get downloading now.</p> <p><span id="more-62518" />Miniclips is offering Windows Phone owners the chance to get their hand son four full games for free. This offer will run until the 15<sup>th</sup> April 2013 and while none of the games are super new, they ave a proven track record of being engaging and addictive.</p> <p>Here we take a look at the four games on offer â" weâve reviewed each of them and can vouch for their quality. Youâll find the download link on each of the reviews.</p> <h3>iStunt 2 Xbox Live for Nokia Lumia</h3> <p><a href="http://www.noknok.tv/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/iStunt2-Xbox-Live-Game.jpg?9d7bd4"><img src="http://www.noknok.tv/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/iStunt2-Xbox-Live-Game-150x150.jpg?9d7bd4" alt="iStunt2-Xbox-Live-Game" width="150" height="150" class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-62520" /></a>As far as weâre concerned, extreme sports make for better video games than team sports do. Part of thatâs because extreme sports tend to be much harder to master, and partly itâs because you can do crazy things with the format.</p> <p>iStunt 2 takes the sport of snowboarding, strips out all the boring go-straight-down-a-mountain stuff and inserts a healthy dose of the fantastical. Oh, and then adds in a brilliantly simple trick system that will keep you coming back to perfect your scores.</p> <p><a href="http://www.noknok.tv/2012/03/30/xbox-live-game-for-windows-phone-istunt-2-review/"><strong>Read the full iStunt 2 review</strong></a></p> <h3>Monster Island Xbox Live for Nokia Lumia</h3> <p><a href="http://www.noknok.tv/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/monster-island-xbox-live-review-01.jpg?9d7bd4"><img title="monster-island-xbox-live-review-01" src="http://www.noknok.tv/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/monster-island-xbox-live-review-01-300x300.jpg?9d7bd4" width="180" height="180" class="alignright" /></a></p> <p>Has the Angry Birds phenomenon flown the coop? If you love the physics engine it developed and the idea that throwing things at other objects is fun then youâre in for a whole stack of it with Monster Island.</p> <p>However, we think Monster Island has more in line with Fragger than Angry Birds, as there is an advanced level of game play going on here. While Angry Birds was all about simply trajectories, in Monster Island you need to balance the speed and angle of your pitched bomb (or rock) with the knock-on efforts of your surroundings, which makes for a far more involved level of game play.</p> <p><strong><a href="http://www.noknok.tv/2012/07/18/monster-island-xbox-live-for-windows-phone-review/">Read the full Monster Island review</a></strong></p> <h3>Fragger Xbox Live for Nokia Lumia</h3> <p><a href="http://www.noknok.tv/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Fragger-Nokia-Lumia-710-review.jpg?9d7bd4"><img title="Fragger-Nokia-Lumia-710-review" src="http://www.noknok.tv/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Fragger-Nokia-Lumia-710-review-300x300.jpg?9d7bd4" width="180" height="180" class="alignright" /></a>Fire in the hole! Fragger takes a little <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/2011/12/02/nokia-lumia-800-free-game-angry-birds-review/" target="_blank">Angry Birds</a>, mixes it in with a bit of <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/2011/02/24/nokia-n8-games-worms-2010-review/" target="_blank">Worms</a> and throws in a grenade-tossing protagonist. Itâs not big, itâs not particularly clever, but it is yet another solidly enjoyable casual Windows Phone game.</p> <p>So, with that intro in mind, is Fragger the next Angry Birds? Not quite, but the premise isnât entirely dissimilar. The goal is to take out a bunch of targets (army dummies rather than pigs) by judging the trajectory and power of a static projectile launcher.</p> <p><a href="http://www.noknok.tv/2012/02/03/nokia-lumia-710-game-fragger-review/"><strong>Read the full Fragger review</strong></a></p> <h3>Gravity Guy Xbox Live for Nokia Lumia</h3> <p><a href="http://www.noknok.tv/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/gravity-guy-review-01.jpg?9d7bd4"><img title="Nokia Lumia 800 game: Gravity Guy review" src="http://www.noknok.tv/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/gravity-guy-review-01-300x300.jpg?9d7bd4" width="180" height="180" class="alignright" /></a>If youâve got nerves of steel, the reflexes of a cat and need a break from <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/2011/12/02/nokia-lumia-800-free-game-angry-birds-review/">Angry Birds</a>, <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/2011/12/20/nokia-lumia-800-game-fruit-ninja-review/">Fruit Ninja</a> and <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/2012/01/04/nokia-lumia-800-game-plants-vs-zombies-pvz-review/">Plants vs. Zombies</a>, Gravity Guy might be your new favourite game for the <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/device/nokia-lumia-800/">Nokia Lumia 800</a>. Packing great cartoony graphics and putting your reactions to the ultimate test, weâve been turning the world upside down with this challenging and addictive p ick-up-and-play game for Windows Phone.</p> <p><a href="http://www.noknok.tv/2012/01/06/nokia-lumia-800-game-gravity-guy-review/"><strong>Read the full Gravity Guy review</strong></a></p> <p>Youâll find there are versions for both Windows Phone 7.x and Windows Phone 8, so no matter which Nokia Lumia you own there will be a great choice of games for you to download and keep.</p> <p>Which one will you download first? Let us know in the Comments below.</p> </article></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.noknok.tv/2013/04/12/free-games-for-your-windows-phone-powered-nokia-lumia/">http://www.noknok.tv/2013/04/12/free-games-for-your-windows-phone-powered-nokia-lumia/</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-23079457888830369432013-04-12T04:00:00.003-07:002013-04-12T04:00:55.228-07:00Ridge Racer Driftopia Free-to-Play Game Headed To PC And PS3 - Siliconera<strong>Ridge Racer Driftopia Free-to-Play Game Headed To PC And PS3 - Siliconera</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="postarticle"> <p class="writer"><strong>By <a href="http://www.siliconera.com" title="Visit Ishaanâs website" rel="author external">Ishaan</a></strong> . April 11, 2013 . 11:08am</p> <p>Namco Bandai have announced <em><a title="Ridge Racer Driftopia" href="http://www.siliconera.com/tag/ridge-racer-driftopia/">Ridge Racer Driftopia</a></em>, a free-to-play <em>Ridge Racer</em> game for the PC and PlayStation 3 that will be released later this year.</p> <p> <br /><br />  </p> <p>âAt Namco Bandai Games we are committed to embracing new business models alongside the still vital traditional retail sector,â said Olivier Comte, Senior Vice President, Namco Bandai Games Europe. âFree-to-play is playing an increasingly important role, so itâs very exciting to be bringing one of our most successful franchises to the free-to-play space for everyone to enjoy.â</p> <p> </p> <p>More details on <em>Ridge Racer Driftopia</em> will be announced âsoonâ.<br /><img src="http://storage.siliconera.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/rracer_driftopia_thumb.png" height="1" width="1" title="Ridge Racer Driftopia Free to Play Game Headed To PC And PS3 image" alt="Ridge Racer Driftopia Free to Play Game Headed To PC And PS3" /></p> <br /><br /><div id="related_post"> <ul class="related_post"><li><a href="http://www.siliconera.com/2013/04/12/ridge-racer-driftopia-is-the-next-main-entry-in-the-series/" title="Ridge Racer Driftopia Is The Next Main Entry In The Series"><img src="http://storage.siliconera.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/t_rr.png" alt="Ridge Racer Driftopia Is The Next Main Entry In The Series" /></a><a href="http://www.siliconera.com/2013/04/12/ridge-racer-driftopia-is-the-next-main-entry-in-the-series/" title="Ridge Racer Driftopia Is The Next Main Entry In The Series">Ridge Racer Driftopia Is The Next Main Entry In The Series</a></li><li><a href="http://www.siliconera.com/2013/04/11/final-fantasy-xiv-a-realm-reborn-magitek-teaser-brings-back-memories/" title="Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn Magitek Teaser Brings Back Memories"><img src="http://storage.siliconera.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/terra_thumb.png" alt="Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn Magitek Teaser Brings Back Memories" /></a><a href= "http://www.siliconera.com/2013/04/11/final-fantasy-xiv-a-realm-reborn-magitek-teaser-brings-back-memories/" title="Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn Magitek Teaser Brings Back Memories">Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn Magitek Teaser Brings Back Memories</a></li><li><a href="http://www.siliconera.com/2013/04/05/pass-on-suggestions-for-another-ten-super-street-fighter-iv-characters/" title="Pass On Suggestions For Another Ten Super Street Fighter IV Characters"><img src="http://storage.siliconera.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/juri_thumb.png" alt="Pass On Suggestions For Another Ten Super Street Fighter IV Characters" /></a><a href="http://www.siliconera.com/2013/04/05/pass-on-suggestions-for-another-ten-super-street-fighter-iv-characters/" title="Pass On Suggestions For Another Ten Super Street Fighter IV Characters">Pass On Suggestions For Another Ten Super Street Fighter IV Characters</a></li><li><a href="http://www.siliconera.com/2013/04/04/these-are-some-of-t he-enemies-youll-face-in-remember-me/" title="These Are Some Of The Enemies Youâll Face In Remember Me"><img src="http://storage.siliconera.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/rememberme_thumb.png" alt="These Are Some Of The Enemies Youâll Face In Remember Me" /></a><a href="http://www.siliconera.com/2013/04/04/these-are-some-of-the-enemies-youll-face-in-remember-me/" title="These Are Some Of The Enemies Youâll Face In Remember Me">These Are Some Of The Enemies Youâll Face In Remember Me</a></li></ul></div> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.siliconera.com/2013/04/11/ridge-racer-driftopia-free-to-play-game-headed-to-pc-and-ps3/">http://www.siliconera.com/2013/04/11/ridge-racer-driftopia-free-to-play-game-headed-to-pc-and-ps3/</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4893430065398081404.post-12605209930577006412013-04-12T04:00:00.001-07:002013-04-12T04:00:53.805-07:00The Best Games Currently On Sale or Free - Slide To Play<strong>The Best Games Currently On Sale or Free - Slide To Play</strong><br/><br/><div><div class="entry-content"> <p>There must be something in the air. Every couple of weeks it seems iOS developers decide in unison to drop the prices of their games. Right now a bunch of excellent games are either on sale or totally free. Weâve picked our favorites and listed them below, with download links and links to our reviews.<span id="more-640090" /></p> <h2>Free</h2> <div class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="" src="http://img.stpcdn.net/screenshots/epochfinal1.jpg" width="480" height="320" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Epoch</p></div> <p>Bad Air Day â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/bad-air-day-review/">Review</a> â" 3/4 â" (was $0.99) â" <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=12TxLChW8N0&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=403472341&partnerId=30&siteID=12TxLChW8N0-ITg__xVJf9TZkivc7nstRQ&partnerId=30">Download It</a><br /> Blimp â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/blimp-review/">Review</a> â" 3/4 â" (was $1.99) â" <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=12TxLChW8N0&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=317905091&partnerId=30&siteID=12TxLChW8N0-ITg__xVJf9TZkivc7nstRQ&partnerId=30">Download It</a><br /> The Blocks Cometh â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/the-blocks-cometh-by-halfbot-review/">Review</a> â" 3/4 â" (was $1.99) â" <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=12TxLChW8N0&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=415877950&partnerId=30&siteID=12TxLChW8N0-ITg__xVJf9TZkivc7nstRQ&partnerId=30">Download It</a><br /> Epoch â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/epoch-review/">Review</a> â" 4/4 â" (was $2.99) â" <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=12TxLChW8N0&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=453164597&partnerId=30&siteID=12TxLChW8N0-ITg__xVJf9TZkivc7nstRQ&partnerId=30">Download It</a><br /> Fruit Ninja â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/fruit-ninja-review/">Review</a> â" 4/4 â" (was $0.99) â" <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=12TxLChW8N0&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=362949845&partnerId=30&siteID=12TxLChW8N0-ITg__xVJf9TZkivc7nstRQ&partnerId=30">Download It</a><br /> Fruit Ninja HD â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/fruit-ninja-review/">Review</a> â" 4/4 â" (was $2.99) â" <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/fruit-ninja-hd/id370066032?mt=8">Download It</a><br /> Gangster Granny â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/gangster-granny-review/">Review</a> â" 3/4 â" (was $0.99) â" <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=12TxLChW8N0&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=538912378&partnerId=30&siteID=12TxLChW8N0-ITg__xVJf9TZkivc7nstRQ&partnerId=30">Download It</a><br /> Ski Jumping Pro â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/ski-jumping-pro-review/">Review</a> â" 2/4 â" (was $0.99) â" <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=12TxLChW8N0&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=585599497&partnerId=30&siteID=12TxLChW8N0-ITg__xVJf9TZkivc7nstRQ&partnerId=30">Download It</a><br /> Tiki Towers â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/tiki-towers-review/">Review</a> â" 3/4 â" (was $0.99) â" <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=12TxLChW8N0&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=298127125&partnerId=30&siteID=12TxLChW8N0-ITg__xVJf9TZkivc7nstRQ&partnerId=30">Download It</a><br /> Tiki Towers 2 â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/tiki-towers-2-review/">Review</a> â" 2/4 â" (was $2.99) â" <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=12TxLChW8N0&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=411884364&partnerId=30&siteID=12TxLChW8N0-ITg__xVJf9TZkivc7nstRQ&partnerId=30">Download It</a><br /> Angry Birds Star Wars â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/angry-birds-star-wars-review/">Review</a> â" 4/4 â" (regularly $0.99) â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/news/starbucks-pick-of-the-week-is-angry-birds-star-wars/">Downloading Instructions</a></p> <h2>Sale</h2> <div class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="" src="http://stp-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/fetch5.png" width="500" height="375" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Fetch</p></div> <p>Bug Princess 2 â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/bug-princess-2-review/">Review</a> â" 4/4 â" $4.99 (was $6.99) â" <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=12TxLChW8N0&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=499496439&partnerId=30&siteID=12TxLChW8N0-ITg__xVJf9TZkivc7nstRQ&partnerId=30">Buy It</a><br /> Fetch â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/fetch-review/">Review</a> â" 4/4 â" $3.99 (was $4.99) â" <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=12TxLChW8N0&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=596209295&partnerId=30&siteID=12TxLChW8N0-ITg__xVJf9TZkivc7nstRQ&partnerId=30">Buy It</a><br /> Skylanders Battlegrounds â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/skylanders-battlegrounds-review/">Review</a> â" 2/4 â" $2.99 (was $6.99) â" <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=12TxLChW8N0&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=540442762&partnerId=30&siteID=12TxLChW8N0-ITg__xVJf9TZkivc7nstRQ&partnerId=30">Buy It</a><br /> Table Top Racing â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/table-top-racing-review/">Review</a> â" 4/4 â" $0.99 (was $2.99) â" <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=12TxLChW8N0&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=575160362&partnerId=30&siteID=12TxLChW8N0-ITg__xVJf9TZkivc7nstRQ&partnerId=30">Buy It</a><br /> Total War Battles â" <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/review/total-war-battles-review/">Review</a> â" 4/4 â" $1.99 (was $2.99) â" <a href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=12TxLChW8N0&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=499885330&partnerId=30&siteID=12TxLChW8N0-ITg__xVJf9TZkivc7nstRQ&partnerId=30">Buy It</a></p> </div></div><br />Source Article from <a href="http://www.slidetoplay.com/news/the-best-games-currently-on-sale-or-free-4-11-2013/">http://www.slidetoplay.com/news/the-best-games-currently-on-sale-or-free-4-11-2013/</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0