subscription
Latest
Sell your soul to AT&T for three free months of WoW
Blizzard is in bed with the ginormousness that is AT&T; if you're presently using cable internet and you choose to switch to SBC AT&T DSL, AT&T will send you a free game card good for 3 months of World of Warcraft.There's no way for us to either recommend or discourage this deal, because the quality of the different high-speed internet services varies from city to city. But hey, it's kind of cool if you don't mind shameless corporate promotions and if for some reason or another your cable internet provider isn't doing its job. You do need to be an already-existing subscriber of World of Warcraft to be eligible for the deal. That's okay, though, since one would expect that only the WoW hardcore (if even them) would actually switch ISPs for three free months of game time.[Via WoW Insider]
Sprint Arcade brings subscription-based gaming to the mobile
We're not exactly sure how huge an audience there will be for subscription-based gaming on the cellphone, but nevertheless, Sprint is all set to find out. Announced at the Electronics for All Expo, the aptly-named Sprint Arcade will bring a number of titles from EA Mobile to "most data-enabled Sprint phones" for $9.99 per month. Among the titles listed are Sudoku, Mini Golf, Mahjong, Hearts, Air Hockey and Blue Blocks, but the carrier is already promising that more are on the horizon. Separately, the firm also proclaimed that it had partnered up with Namco Networks to bring Sprint users a mobile version of the Popeye arcade game, but it failed to cough up any pricing details to go along with it. So, anyone buying in? Or is that sound we hear the collective balking of Sprint customers everywhere?
Hellgate: London subscriptions temporarily offline
As a whole, it's probably fair to say that MMO players are a tolerant lot. We're generally willing to put up with bugs, unbalanced players classes, and sparse content when we jump into an MMO for the first time. Usually the excitement of being part of a new world overrides the feeling that we're paying money for an unfinished product. What is likely to irk us however, is when we purchase a game, install it, and go to put in our subscription information and ... oops, the subscription system is bugged! Sadly, such is the case with Hellgate: London, with Flagship Studios announcing, " Subscriptions are temporarily unavailable due to technical issues."Now, as we understand it, that doesn't mean that players can't play the game, it just means that nobody yet has access to the subscriber content yet, which is supposed to be such a big feature for hardcore fans. Though I guess if you really look at what the subscriber content is (bells and whistles like new items, character classes, themed events, and the like), it's supposed to be the icing to the rest of the game's cake, and it's highly unlikely that players have already dug through all that cake in the span of a single day. Still, we'll keep you posted on the status of this subscriber bug. Hopefully it doesn't scuttle the launch completely.
It's alive!
Fury has gone live, both in the US and as of today Europe as well, and players are eating up their free month of Immortal status like candy. Recently Ten Ton Hammer posted their first impressions of the game, which includes a rather innovative pay structure. It seems that everyone gets their free Immortal month -- yes, the first taste is free -- and after that in order to keep all the benefits of such ungodly rank you have to subscribe at $9.99 a month. Those that don't can still play the game, it's just with a few key features missing, like in-game VoIP. But that's not all players pay for.You can also buy abilities for your characters, starting a $5 bucks a pop. They call it the "Unlock All Abilities" feature, and it basically allows those people with money to burn and only a few hours to play to get access to all the abilities others would earn through gameplay. It's a risky move, in my opinion, but on the other hand, there is so much sale of virtual currency going on today, why not start out by selling your own stuff?
Pomoto 1.0.1 plays better with iPhoto
Pomoto is basically a replacement for iPhoto's .Mac web albums, designed to take your iPhoto collection and put it on the web with as little trouble as possible. Like FlickrExport (although this is a separate app, of course, not a plugin), it looks like a pretty smooth way to get all the cool stuff in iPhoto out where everyone else can see it.The latest version, 1.0.1, includes support for iPhoto 7 Smart Albums and Events, better "privatization" of private Albums, and "more robust photo loading," which I'll leave up to you to decide. Since Pomoto publishes your photos for you, it's really an app tagged into a subscription service, so it costs either $3 a month or $30 a year. If you really like the .Mac photo publishing features, but don't need all of .Mac, it's definitely worth checking out.
Codies make futuristic MMO RF Online a freebie
While it seems as if everyone and their brother has it in their head to release an MMO these days, most of these fall flat on on their faces before even being released, and those that do make it to retail face the unenviable task of drawing players away from the likes of World of Warcraft or Club Penguin. What's a publisher to do? Well in the case of Codemasters and the CCR-developed RF Online, you make the game free and cross your fingers hoping that people care enough to come play.Codies officials today confirmed that RF Online, which launched in February 2006 to a host of mediocre reviews, is now "completely free" to download and play with no monthly subscription, complete with a newly released content update, Episode II: Pioneers of Novus. The move smacks of desperation on the part of publisher, and echoes a similar effort with its poorly received MMO ArchLord, which was made free to play earlier this year. According to Codemasters, since that time the game has seen its player base grow by 700%...and if that figure translated to any money whatsoever that would mean something. As it stands, sure, anyone is willing to try anything once if it's free. We just wonder how long the company can continue to sustain these types of games without generating dollar one.
Poll: Do you use a game card or a credit card?
I'm very interested in seeing the answer to this one-- I have always used a credit card to pay for my account, just because it's all automatically done between Blizzard and my bank, and I don't ever have to worry if my account is all paid up. But I'm sure there are tons of people out there, like popsixx, who play from game card to game card, buying them one after another, or hoarding them up (from gifts or elsewhere), and putting them in when necessary.For the life of me, though, I can't guess which one would be more popular. There are definitely a lot of kids playing the game, and they'd use game cards for sure. But then again, most of the folks I play with are a little older and financially more stable, and more likely to use credit cards (or PayPal for that matter)So which is it? Game cards or credit cards? And feel free to tell us in the comments why you do what you do-- maybe there's some huge benefit to using only game cards that I haven't noticed yet.%Poll-4045%
Sprint to ditch traditional contracts with Xohm, rely on subscriptions
We've yet to find an average joe (or jane) who just adores that two-year agreement they signed to receive a single subsidized device on day one, and while Sprint hasn't been one to let folks off the hook early, it is trying a slightly different approach with Xohm. Reportedly, the carrier will be relying on "subscriptions," which will enable customers to save more when paying for larger chunks of time, while not forcing them into anything long-term. On the same token, this also means that you'll likely be paying full price for any hardware. Notably, the outfit's CTO also made clear that Xohm "would not be backed by what the industry calls service-level agreements," so don't count on any kind of minimum bandwidth guarantee. As for pricing, the numbers are apparently still being worked, but it was suggested that the service would "probably be based on tiers."[Via TechDirt, image courtesy of BroadbandReports]
Nintendo Power ending three-for-free offer
Nintendo Power has been pushing this deal for what seems like forever -- register three games or consoles with your My Nintendo account to receive three free issues of the magazine and a discounted year-length subscription afterwards. Besides extending your console's warranty and the less-than-occasional giveaway, it's pretty much the only incentive for North American gamers to register their Nintendo products at all.Enjoy the offer while it lasts, as it expires at the end of this month, and trial subscription registrations will no longer be accepted come August 1st. Could this be the harbinger of Nintendo Power's move to a third-party publisher? Or perhaps it was just finally time to end the trial? Either way, we hope that something will take its place as a reward for product registration. We're tired of seeing the awesome stuff Japan's Club Nintendo receives, while all we get are downloadable wallpapers.
Zonbu launches subscription-based PC, service plans
Alright folks, those of you scrambling to get your palms around the totally green, subscription based Zonbu PC can put away your patience card, as the firm has officially launched the machine and the corresponding service plans to the masses. 'Course, you already know how the court of public opinion feels about it, so it's finally time to pull the trigger (or not) on the variably priced, modestly-spec'd PC. Check it out -- you can snag your very own Linux-based mini PC for just $99 if you're cool with a very awkward two-year agreement.[Via Electronista]
GameTap Lite client (finally) released
The long awaited GameTap client for the Mac is out (direct download right here), and our (newly redesigned) sister site for all things gaming Joystiq put together this video (complete with music from "Psycho Mother$*#^ing Soldier"), along with a pictoral preview of what you can expect when you download and install.According to Joystiq, the Transgaming setup works very well-- they even found an Xbox 360 controller driver to use with it, and the client brought them right into OS X arcade gaming heaven. There are apparently some games you can play for free, but most games will require a subscription; we're told it's 99 cents for the first month, and it'll be about $7 to $10 a month after that, depending on how often you pay. This client is actually the "Lite" version-- GameTap says the deluxe version is coming later this year which will offer full screen gameplay, the ability to download more games while playing, and "a richer game environment," whatever that means. What are you waiting for? Download that sucker and go psycho, solider!
Zonbu's subscription-based PC reviewed
PC Mag has gotten its hands on the semi-infamous Zonbu desktop -- a Linux based, environmentally friendly, ultra-small, ultra-cheap PC which is being launched this month -- and they've issued the first field report. The system, which we mentioned back in May, is based around a Via chipset and has no internal storage save for 512MB of RAM and a 4GB flash drive used for the OS. The $99 computer is meant to be used in conjunction with a $12.95-a-month service, much like a mobile phone (with a two year commitment and all), and provides 25GB of storage space on Amazon's S3 servers. The reviewer seems impressed with the speed and stability of the computer, OS, and included apps, but underwhelmed with the online storage process (slow, small), and lack of an included optical drive. The critique also covers a "community" version of the Zonbu ($250), which axes the subscription and adds root access to the computer -- which PC Mag seems to feel is a more sellable option for the new company -- although overall they recommend the system to anyone with basic computing requirements. Of course, you could just get an Apple TV for around that price and hack it, but that might not be up your alley, so check the read link for the whole, exciting breakdown.[Thanks, Corine]
Samsung teams with MusicNet for subscription-based music service
Samsung certainly has an on-again / off-again history with regard to online music services, but the MusicNet-based system that was most recently announced is finally going live in the UK, France, and Germany. Built to work seamlessly with the firm's K3, K5, and T9 media players, users will soon be able to access and purchase digital music through the Samsung Media Studio application. Notably, previously released DAPs (such as the Z5) that were dubbed PlaysForSure devices are also compatible with the new platform. The service will provide a duo of ways to pay, the first of which will demand €14.99 ($20) for the subscription-based flavor if you reside in Germany or France, while the Brits will pony up £10.25 ($21). For those digging the per-song approach, you'll be looking at €1.15 ($1.57) or £0.79 ($1.60) depending on your homeland. Currently, it seems that the SamsungPlay website is still in limbo, but we're sure it'll have its act together before too long.[Via Pocket-Lint]
GameTap adds Panzer Zwei and Samurai Shodown
GameTap tells us that beginning today they'll have Panzer Dragoon II Zwei (redundant, we know), Neo Geo's Samurai Shodown and King of Fighters '98. It's not all retro though, Eidos' dead-soldier-parts-talking Rogue Trooper will also be available. The games are available on GameTap's subscription service, but we're really still enjoying last week's addition of Psychonauts, which we hope gets added to the GameTap's expanding free service at the end of the month so nobody will have an excuse anymore not to try it.But what we're really looking forward to is the debut of the GameTap's Mac capabilities next week. GameTap's blog is previewing what the Mac version will entail and the widgets they'll have available. Although newer games won't be supported just yet, a buffet of games for the Mac will be sweet. It may have taken 30 years, but it looks like Mac is finally getting its game on.
GameFly rate increasing by $1 due to mail and game cost
GameFly announced today that they'll be increasing their subscription fee by $1 across all plans. It was bound to happen, and after five years it isn't so bad. GameFly says the increase is due to the postal rate hike and higher cost of console games ... and we're sure the new distribution center had a little something to do with it.A $1 hike isn't really something we can complain about, considering the service saves us, at least, $120 to $200 in game purchases per month. They've even updated the GameQ to more efficiently order your games -- and if you want to just buy, their store deals are the best. There's also a silver lining in the understandable, but still bad, news. GameFly is offering loyal customers the option to lock in discounted rates at 3, 6 and 12 month increments. That way, if you pay upfront, you can get a subscription for cheaper than what it costs now. A good deal if you know you're gonna stick with the service.We've placed the new billing structure after the break.
GameTap's free version plays globally
GameTap's subscription buffet service can't be played globally, much to the chagrin of those outside North America, but apparently their new free service can be according to GameTap's latest release. So, despite not being able to play Tomb Raider: Anniversary (available at 12:01AM Eastern) tomorrow on the subscription service, gamers around the world can play Tomb Raider: Legend and 29 other games for free at GameTap.com.When we contacted GameTap to get some clarification on what's going on with the international issues, they said it's a currency conversion and general international business issue. They hope to make the service available to Europe in the relative future and it is something they're working on. Mac compatibility should be available by late summer. Today is also the launch of GameTap's digital online retail store with 450 titles offered. Well, despite the international crew not being able to use GameTap.com's subscription service, at least you'll be able to play 30 games from the service for free each month. And, per usual, this part is key, you play them for free legally.Update: Added new information on midnight release of Tomb Raider: Anniversary[Via Press Release]
GameTap launches free ad-supported service
Today begins the next iteration of game subscription service GameTap. One of the key components of this new version is the free ad-supported service that'll have about 30 games on a rotating schedule, starting with titles like Metal Slug (which will have online co-op), Bust-A-Move, Bubble Bobble and Rampage. Best of all, part of this free service is being able to play the excellent return of Lara Croft in last year's Tomb Raider: Legend. Yes, for free. As part of their regular paying subscription service, GameTap is rolling out Panzer Dragoon, Metal Slug 2, Art of Fighting, The King of Fighters '95 and Tomb Raider: Legend. We're mostly looking forward to logging into the service next week and playing Tomb Raider: Anniversary as part of the normal subscription fee without having to experience the unwashed masses at retail. You can also purchase the full version digitally from Steam if you don't want to pony up the $10 for GameTap, or there is always the option to purchasing it directly from GameTap's new digitial distribution service, which is completely different from their subscription and free gaming sections. There's a lot of changes going on at GameTap, and we're more than happy to play classic arcade and console games free ... legally.
Linux-based Zonbox offers up subscription based computing
While subscription based music services have their fair share of proponents and critics, an interesting new Linux-based computer is looking to become the poster child of month-to-month computing. Zonbu's Zonbox is a SFF PC with a Linux OS and a minuscule pricetag that requires users to simply fork over $12.95 per month in order to keep their operating system and "$2,000 worth of applications" fully patched and up to date. The wee system features an elusive Intel-compatible ultra-low power CPU, 512MB of RAM, 4GB of flash-based storage, a fairly uninspiring graphics set, VGA out, audio in / out, WiFi, a CF reader, a pair of PS/2 ports, six additional USB ports for peripherals, and built-in Ethernet to boot. The company claims that the unit could save you "up to $10 per month" in energy bills with its uber-lean power requirements, and the 20 included open source applications should take care of most common tasks. The Zonbox itself will run users $99 (or potentially more) up front, and while we understand that the monthly fee includes unlimited internet support, remote data access, and network storage space, there's no word on what happens to your machine (or your down payment) should you default on those monthly increments. [Warning: Read link requires signup]
Jobs: iPod users don't want to rent music
Reuters reports that Steve isn't looking to create a subscription-based iTunes model. "Never say never, but customers don't seem to be interested in it," Jobs told Reuters. "The subscription model has failed so far." Jobs said that iTunes customers want to own their music, not rent it. I think that's a pity because I've tasted a subscription model and actually enjoyed using it. Given Apple's move away from DRM, a necessary component of music subscription, Jobs stance is not a surprise. TUAW readers weighed in on subscriptions in this recent post.
Amazon readying DRM-free online music store?
Oh boy, we're sensing an all-out war. Of course, the tables are slanted mighty heavily in favor of Apple, but it sounds like Amazon is up to the challenge of stealing some of the digital download market share that Cupertino currently owns. According to the UK's TimesOnline, Amazon is ready to "to launch an online music store next month," and while music execs never thought they'd see the day, this service too should have "reduced protection against copyright infringement." In short, the (hopefully) forthcoming service will serve up at least some DRM-free tracks as Apple's iTunes already does, and as expected, a vast majority of the free and clear music will come from EMI and various other "independent labels." Interestingly, it was stated that Amazon hoped to have the service live "by next month," but it was still unclear as to whether it would meet that goal. No word on whether this service will attempt to undercut iTMS' $1.29 per DRM-free track, but a little competition never hurt anybody, right?[Via ArsTechnica]
