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Development Update / zOMG As you probably know, for the past month or so we've been concentrating on the monetization of zOMG; as a result, we did a number of things in the past month: released a new area (Coliseum), new items (the zOMG Buddies), and also released Head Start tickets to a new area to serve as a hangout space (Boardwalk). Over the past 3 weeks, we've been looking at zOMG participation and whatnot, and it has become apparent that there is a really dedicated core of zOMG players, but they are a small percentage of the population (about 5%). This makes it much harder to make zOMG self-sustaining, because you're marketing to a much smaller base. However, there is no denying that the hard-core zOMG players are very passionate about the game. So, what we'd like to do is take a step back and try to broaden the zOMG base before looking at monetization again. - we'll continue doing the zOMG Buddies, since those were well received. We'd also like to expand on them a bit -- either by experimenting with bundling an animated item or with gameplay properties. - we'd like to integrate zOMG into the site more. We have a bunch of ideas on this, including storyline, manga, updating the exchange, having interweaving quests, and other things. This is one of the things where we would appreciate your feedback -- we're sure there are ideas that we haven't discussed. The idea is to make zOMG part of the Gaia storyline, and give an incentive for users to at least visit it every so often. - we are looking at driving more traffic to zOMG by improving the pages that search engines hit when looking for zOMG information and by working with the third party referral sites (i.e., "free flash games" wink . - we are finishing up on another area (Underworld), but putting that on the back burner until after we've integrated zOMG more. - for now, swarf and bronstahd are going to learning PHP and becoming familiar with other aspects of the site -- but in return other members of the team will be helping out on integrating zOMG into the rest of the site. [JK] will be doing additional items from zOMG, and also trying to figure out the best ways of integrating zOMG with the rest of the site, with help from the community. Over the next 3 weeks, Mavdoc will be finishing up Underworld so that we have that available after we've grown the zOMG base. Bottom line: over the next few months, we'll trying to weave zOMG into the entire Gaia experience in the hopes that we can get more users interested in zOMG, and then we'll try exploring monetization again.

Posted by: Panagrammic Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 02:14am

Read my journal!

User Comments: [108] Viewing page 0 of 3 · Goto Page: 1 2 3 » [add]

Elda-Chan
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 02:31am


	Big plans! surprised I look forward to seeing how this all pans out. :3

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 02:50am


	I've always wanted more integration. I like the idea of quests overlaying the whole site. It'd be fun to interact with some of the game NPCs outside of the game itself. Maybe they send you a PM asking you to come by for something special. Some way to keep it fresh. The in-game daily chance was a good idea, but if you could expand on that. Maybe a daily quest you can pick up that's different every day. Like you could randomly get one of oh... five or so quests. I dunno... throwing an idea out there.

Shiarka Jonless
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Master Raiko Shono
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 02:50am


	FINALLY, Gaia is taking into consideration what is soon to be one of its greatest milestones! This is very good news indeed. However, I am disappointed in the laying off of Mavdoc...

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 03:48am


	Quote: The idea is to make zOMG part of the Gaia storyline Does Gaia even have a storyline anymore? Someone may as well retcon the past 2 years of "storyline" and pick up where zOMG left off, since zOMG actually pulled Gaia's previous storyline into something coherent. I mean, right now it's kind of just "Animated are wreaking havoc all over Gaia, but whatever. I just know we have to save that random floating jellyfish. Come along, pointless Icelandic sidekick. Perhaps you'll chase a moth and rid us of yourself." Otherwise, it seems like zomg gets a nice boost in traffic during events, which I've found to be more fun and interesting than the main site's events.

Hybrid
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Ungoliath
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 04:04am


	I'm really, really, really happy to read this. I want to play,I really do...But I need more. Much more. heart There is already in zOMG Forum a bunch of threads with suggestions, but my main one would be to ask GCD and SF DIRECTLY to them to see their answer. Just a thread in both forums will work enough, considering they're the ones that most influence carry. Maybe silly, but I think it will give TONS of highlight on what you EXACTLY need.

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 04:09am


	Thank you for the info, even though I am very, very saddened and upset by Mavdoc's layoff. Maybe if things go well for zOMG and you guys raise the amount of people who play zOMG from 5% to a higher percentage, you guys can hire Mav back? ;o;

Euphonious Cantabile
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deadrun
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 04:17am


	I'm relieved to hear this, it sounds like a compromise. Even though I don't play ZOMG much I bought a buddy and a ticket to support the developers, you guys did an amazing thing and I'm excited to see you ZOMG integrated with the site more.

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 04:17am


	I love zomg, and have been having a great time playing it again -- now that there's something to do. in the first year or so, the game was swamped because no one had hit a wall. Ex-headstarters, like myself, probably dropped out of the game simply because once you exhaust the content, it feels like there isn't much point... vending can earn you more gold. I'd buy orb doublers and other power-ups, but when all my rings are 10.0, there's no point. Integration would be a fantastic way to draw players.. as long as there's something to do, I'll play. The buddies are a great idea, and I'd love to see more of them. It would also be fantastic if there were more cash shop rings to buy... >.>

kataphora
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jonjon21428
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 04:22am


	So sad that mav was laid off. crying

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 04:30am


	Well... this is pleasant news to read. I hope you, and the rest of the staff continue to integrate zOMG! with the rest of the site, raising the percentage of players. It's a great game.

Kain-Senpai
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Lazarus Larkin
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 04:37am


	I'd rather see it ditched completely. It's probably never going to be very much fun for the people who don't already like it, and those of us who don't are just going to grow to resent it more if you try to force us to play.

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 04:38am


	It worked... crying We got their attention. What are you considering exactly to make the game more popular on the site at large? For example: There was an original suggestion which was making animated pets appear besides avatars in post, doing their idle animation, and some random animations once in a while. Would this make a new craze over Gaia as a whole WHILE making the game more profitable? At least making flash assets in the avatar area is already implemented, thanks to, ironically, animated items. You could implement it so disabling animated avatars also disables this, meaning people wouldn't complain about lag. I'm aware it would be a good deal of work, specially because the Buddies are not avatar equip items so either a work around or something completely new would have to be worked with. Ah, what am I saying... This isn't a suggestions thread. This is a Journal, lol, and I'm probably asking about future plans to the wrong person, on-topic or not.

DrQuint
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scullylam
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 04:52am


	Thank you for once pointing out that zOMGaians are a part of this site. I was feeling that we are neglected and ignored, like we aren't as important as those in SF or even the GCD. Even if "supposedly" we are a small amount of users that play how many of those are just trolling Gaia? What part of the 95% is trolls? But that doesn't matter. I am glad you and others are thinking of trying to spread word about zOMG! because it is very much needed. I hope you saw as much efforts as we the users have tried, and that this may be a sign that all we have done isn't in vain. (i really think my twitter followers must think i am insane.. sweatdrop ) Anyway, it is a smart move to make zOMG fit within the site and you guys already taken Nicolae and Cresento from the game and have them stuck in limbo in the current storyline. I do hope that things will move smoothly with tying the game within and also maybe for once both plots make sense? Like zOMG had Jack come out of hiding and he did say a few times "he is coming". We are all dying to know who "he" is since that was also left in the manga, creating a huge cliffhanger we are all curious about. What I would love for you at HQ to do is to come out with a zOMG rig. Yes, a RIG. I and so many others would love to see more items to come out and also in the rig, make the zOMG dev team SDplus dolls. Sure whoever is making the dolls may facepalm at the thought of making more staff dolls but really the zOMG team should be recognized and include Mavdoc in it too. Or, to go a little more crazy, include everyone that has ever worked on zOMG that has left and has no doll. I love collecting the dolls and it is a reason I would purchase GC just for playing a rig in hopes of winning a doll or two. Another idea, include more things for Nicolae to sell. Whether it be more powerups or pets, you can still try to test out that original idea which was zOMG attire. In the days of zeta, Nicolae did have clothing in his shop but then it was taken away. I know you guys want him be zOMG only, so why not include some wearables that are zOMG too? And yeah maybe it would make the recipes or epics for in game not seem special, but really it shouldn't affect it at all. Right? Any purchase that is zOMG goes to zOMG. I also would love if zOMG badges may tie in with the achievements that are gained on the site. Not all badges can just be "achieved" but you can have it as the first being "you logged onto zOMG!!!" and then move up relating to quests like "you completed your first quest!" or even "you defeated endboss in zOMG!" That kind of stuff would be cool to show off while posting in the forums. And at the same time, could be a possible way to promote zOMG. Course, not sure if that would be hard to tie together with both different systems... Oh and about the RL Gaia merchandise shop, will this site ever do inner advertising about it? I found out that during the end of this past year there was a sale on zOMG merchandise. You guys could have mentioned it on the home page easy and people would have flocked to purchase. And I know a lot of people would still love to see new or even merchandise come back in stock. But yeah inner advertising shouldn't be too hard. Oh and before I forget, the zOMG coliseum video contest. Any update on it? I know this may not be the place to ask about it but that was only mentioned once as I can recall and no more info updated about how long the contest is for... and really if contests were run somehow and tied with zOMG, wouldn't that bring more interest to the game? Okay I talked way too much. sweatdrop Good luck with trying to get this to work and I will keep supporting zOMG and Gaia as much as I can. Well, maybe a little more for zOMG..... sweatdrop xd

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 05:12am


	Wouldn't it be better to sell some ZOMG buddies with a RIG bundle than with a animated item bundle? Or maybe have a zOMG buddy come with a rare ring ovo

Arroyo Milori
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Asrai
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 05:17am


	This sounds exciting.. I like the idea of quests and possibly achievements? in regards to the site. Half the fun of achievements and random holiday site events is the challenges they offer on the site and knowing that you're working towards a goal. With achievements you get bragging rights... and with the site events you get cool items. Any updates to the storyline and manga is a plus in my book. Really really random idea... what if the rings (or some other weapon) were equipable items? And as you level them up, or progress through zOMG - you open up new poses on the ring. Sorta like evolving items, except it's up to the user to get it to evolve. I imagine that it would need to be done with new rings and I would think (and hope) that it would progressively get more difficult to level it up... I don't even know if this is plausible. Anyways, it might encourage more people to play if there was an incentive. And of course it could always be something that people need to purchase with GC (and the MP). Unfortunately I haven't been on zOMG all that much, but I really appreciate all the hard work you're putting into this. Thanks.

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 05:18am


	I love the idea of zOMG being on the site more. Right now, the game feels like its another site and the gold just sort of travels to this site. :'D This will be so cool. Since there hasn't been a thread created for ideas, one I had was the ability to make a status option for our signatures that could show our TCL, number of badges and rings, and maybe orbs? Maybe even an option to show us questing farm badges like "Hey, I'm going for my Air Fluff 5000 badge. I'm at x out of 5000!" It would be an easy way to find other users to farm with on the forums instead of just soloing which can get boring when badge farming. And because it just hasn't been said enough, orb shop, plz? XD So many of us that have been playing have a large amount of orbs. A shop would be a great way to spend them since we don't have rings to upgrade and such. :x But as someone else pointed out, while the z!F has plenty of ideas, you need to ask the GCD and SF for ideas. They're the ones that spend their time on the forums. So, they probably have a different point of view than us. For example, why would a GCDer want his or her TCL in his or her's signature when he or she doesn't even play the game? They might like the shop idea though. c: I dunno for sure though.

Infamous
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Asahi Tenshi
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 05:26am


	Uhm....I have an idea about zomg...I dont play zomg because its waaaay too laggy. I was always wishing there could be a...Private server,where you can enter a password and you tell your friends the pass and anyone who doesnt know it they cannot enter.so ist not as laggy,and yes i know theres a thing on zomg where you can block out other players ring movements but on my computer everytime someone moves through the area i`m in i get frozen for a few minutes... crying I really like zomg but i can`t play it at all because its soooo laggy i want to play it though! So,Please consider my idea! mrgreen All things are possible to him who believes. [Mark 9:23] If it ain`t got that swing...it don`t mean thing..... ]

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 05:37am


	These are fantastic ideas and I'm looking forward to seeing them implemented.

A Fallen Virtue
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Rose Milk Tea
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 05:53am


	I like the idea of implementing zOMG more around the site. :3 And thank you for showing us that at least you and the non-zOMG dev team care. Not sure if I can say the same for our CEO or management, though.

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 05:58am


	It is nice to see Gaia integrating zOMG into the main site, but why now? How long did Gaia take to notice it? It isn't right. Especially not with the 3 developers now on the team, How does Gaia expect to have more users when the team is getting so small. Updates will take longer. Please consider bringing Mavdoc back.

PorceIain Doll
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Red Kutai
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 06:04am


	What I'm most curious about is your request for feedback; namely, where do you want it? By default, the majority of zOMG!-related feedback goes straight to the zOMG! Forum; but if you're going to be checking Site Feedback (or elsewhere) primarily, it would be good for those of us interested in supplying feedback to know. Are you going to come to us, asking for feedback, or should we be bringing it to you? I have to say, I keep hearing that you're 'looking for feedback', but I don't feel like it's getting through on any of the channels we've been supplying it on. If you're really interested in hearing what we've got to say, I ask that you make it clear just how you want us to be communicating it. I still have faith that you guys have the best of intentions, as far as listening to your usership is concerned, but it would really serve us well to know when, where and how it's best for us to do our part...

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 06:25am


	Some things that could be profitable and some add-ons to my last post: A ring that i thought of while watching it snow, Snow Ring: Target a foe,low recharge time so it can be used many times,When used on a foe snow falls around the area making movement hard and making the foe lose ...HP (sorry i forget the name of the system D smile when it attempts to move. Maybe,a ring where you put up a barrier around yourself and crew members for a limted time and you can heal yourself,let another ring recharge,or use revive,double orb,etc..Now my add-on to my private server,a ticket is created where you have to buy it in the cash shop,so that you could have your own private server,not for 1000 cash but something more...reasonable persay like 150 cash?and not ever take the item out of the cash shop?

Asahi Tenshi
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Gabriel Faust
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 06:34am


	I love that you are working on making Gaia's connections to zOMG! more than just sharing a map together; its a relief to see that our development team is aware of zOMG!s continued existence beyond its initial release. I'd also like to have repeated in any official announcements that Gaia is doing this on user feedback; we'd love to have our efforts acknowledged officially. heart

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 07:04am


	I would play but as a 10.0...I can't do much. I been in the new area (life mam !) and been meaning to play more.

Srintella Tiagara
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Ace of Blue Spades
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 07:22am


	I am now filled with optimism, Panagrammic. But I'm sad that Mavdoc had to be let go. I hope you can get him back at some point.

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 07:22am


	I think manga updates will be critical, especially if it ties in with quests in zOMG and the like. I appreciate your efforts to integrate zOMG. :3

electropoisonwaves
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SilverEgg
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 07:34am


	Two magic words: limited edition Limited edition quests, limited edition items, limited edition anything. whee Also in places like Rally you can always link an icon in that enviro to zOMG. Might get some of your Rally users interested in using zOMG as a new hangout.

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 07:52am


	Oh yeah: to get people logging on to zOMG daily, you can always do something similar to the mini devil wings thing, except with a new item. Log onto zOMG, click some icon, and increase your chances of winning ______ at the end of the month. You can put this in BB too! It could be a new/rare summon pet. Or a zOMG item, or a recolor of an old favorite (white OMG?). 4laugh

SilverEgg
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theHarechan
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 08:03am


	Meh. Honestly? I find zOMG! boring and I don't enjoy playing it at all. If more integration of it means I have to play it for something, then I'm going to end up hating zOMG! rather than just be indifferent to it.

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 08:26am


	Hi Pan - I just want to comment and tell you that I love zomg - I really do. I loved the story line, I love the music, I love the events, the scenery is epic and the game itself is enjoyable to play. So why don't I play more often? I can't speak for everyone, but I noticed that my playing waned when they started making large chunks of the game crew dependent. I much prefer solo play. Finding a crew that wants to do the same task as you is difficult. And once you do find a crew, it takes a big chunk of time waiting around while everyone tries to figure out what rings to wear, etc. and 8 out of 10 times one or more members of the party will just disappear - sometimes before you start and sometimes after. I've sat around waiting for upwards of 30 minutes after finding a crew just waiting for everyone to get their act together. Sometimes you just get a bad crew and the people are rude. That does not make for casual or relaxing game play. So I limit myself to events and stuff I can do solo because crewing has been a largely unpleasant experience for me. Despite all this, I still bought a Boardwalk head start ticket because I want to support the game. Please put the casual back in your casual MMO? Thanks...

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Whip
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 09:20am


	This is how it should always have been, heart ! sends cookies of awesome to entire zOMG! team

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 09:43am


	Thanks for the update.

David2074
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Bunai
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 10:34am


	Nice to know that zOMGaia and Gaia Online will slowly become more connected, it means I have more things to type about for the wiki and also it will bring NPCs together, as some are already split between two worlds. We Josie fans are still waiting for Kim to make her debut, though the whole "things that will never happen" from the Gee Boi Ci, doesn't give me hope that she will appear. And these layoffs over the years, are really really depressing. What exactly can the Community do?

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 11:27am


	First off, integration. You know what I always wanted in zomg? The ability to look at and check PMs. Or comments, notices, or even announcements. Add a "pda" like interface that allows one to do that or a toolbar with drop down windows, even if it's just a quick view. I don't like missing out on things while i'm playing. But before you go into interweaving quests, could you post a SITEWIDE announcement (an actual announcement) with a poll and thread on those who do play zomg, and why some DONT play zomg? Because I don't think it's fair to ignore the users who have bad computers or slow internet, as those things still exist. A little info about the userbase will be helpful. Done through a real announcement, to reach as many people as possible. In SF there's a thread that mentions using facebook as a gateway or the like. Maybe a small facebook app that gives users a taste of zomg, but they have to log into the site to actually play the game and get rewarded for playing the app. It wouldn't force users to play on facebook, but it would lure facebook users to gaia a bit more, because it's an advertisement game for the real game which is site based. Rings. Please have more rings to be sold in the cash shop. This would REALLY bring in some revenue, I would think. A rig dedicated to zomg would be nice too. Also, when users buy from the cash shop, maybe for a month or so, a poll should show up every time they purchase somethng (they can opt out by checking a box readng "do not show me any more polls" wink asking if they play zomg, and if they would rather their cash for the items go to zomg. This would help you get an idea of how many zomg users buy items in hopes of supporting zomg. Even if they're not zomg items. That's about all i have...

Rya Dracosin
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Coniglietto
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 12:41pm


	My opinion. zOMG! is the best thing about Gaia - it's what really make it stand out from other avi sites. Only 5% of Gaias population have discovered zOMG! - because it hasn't been integrated into the main site enough.

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 01:28pm


	For site integration imo once you finish chapter 1 the npcs should change to the new looks. this is cause i can see new users being confused as to why they look so different then they do in gold shops. since there is already 3 holiday rings id like to see a 4th one for Christmas be made will all 4 becoming a set in game. having this Christmas ring in the cash shop would bring in a lot of funds i believe if it contributed to a set. having zomg be more apart of other events would help imo. like with the airship event since it stopped right when you got to the god it could be like to be continued in zomg. then you would click a link to zomg that auto teleports you to a area where you fight the vampires. also why not have sponsorship quests in zomg?

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Deazy
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 02:42pm


	Integrate zOMG badges with the Achievements system - srsly this will get more people into the game, we all love boosting our Achievements score. I'd love to use my badges like the Achievements underneath my avatar. Have some animated randomly pop up in the forums (like magical gift boxes) - once clicked they give out 'something' that is exchangeable in the game - maybe a ticket that you have to go to Nicolae at Barton to exchange for an item or gold (must be better than what is given out in the zOMG DC). The Animated attacking the forums might generate some interest. The Animated should become part of the storyline - currently it's like the storyline and zOMG are completely separated and it makes zOMG feel like it's a different world instead of part of Gaia. Please continue having holiday events in zOMG - they are just so much fun.

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 02:43pm


	ooo, can't wait! I'll do my part for zOMG! anyway I can

Parodius-Daryl
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Nespin Fernagon
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 02:54pm


	You can't successfully broaden the user base of the game without people to develop content for it. Laying off one more developer is, at this point, the death knell. That being said, integrating it to the main site would be good. Probably not enough at this point, especially since gaia's dedication to a storyline is laughable, but it'd be good.

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 03:41pm


	Okay, I think I know how we could get a ton more users, at least for a while. Make a crazy quest in zomg for backwings. There will probably be a huge bawfest, but it will be a huge incentive.

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rae-chan-sensei
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 03:44pm


	I really like the idea of using the manga and storyline updates to weave zOMG into the rest of the site. There was a manga when the game first started that seemed very well received (as far as the forums in the GCD that I visit are concerned), and some of the characters and plotlines from zOMG seem to have leaked into a few of the subsequent updates. Keeping it up and making the ties between the two parts of the site stronger could be really great! Another way might be to release a few more recipes (either through new quests to earn them, or simply by adding them to the drops) that can be made into items that tie back to the rest of the site. For example, more NPC recipes. We have Ian's hat and Logan's vest, and Moira, Sasha, Liam, and Sam all have their clothes in the shops, but there are tons of other NPCs that either are already in zOMG or could be incorporated into zOMG, with lots of unique items that might be fun to quest and craft. A lot of people posting before me have really good ideas as well, so hopefully incorporating zOMG into the rest of the site goes smoothly and brings a lot of user participation back to the game. whee

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 04:40pm


	If integrating things like quests I think the most important thing would be to make it playable for the entire community: Those who have never played, those who have dabbled and those who play regularly. Surely the idea of such a move would be to gently coax the community into playing by offering incentives and hope that they enjoy the experience and keep playing. I think some sort of quest chain that involves the whole site would be good - utilising a forum achievements style for some stages, zomg play for others, with a hint of plot and an item at the end? (I'm asking for too much right?). You really don't want to alienate users by making the quest part unplayable for those who are of low level.

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StarShipAries
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 04:56pm


	The Sum is equal to its parts" Monetization is the process of converting or establishing something into legal tender. It usually refers to the printing of banknotes by central banks, but things such as gold, diamonds and emeralds, and art can also be monetized. Even intrinsically worthless items can be made into money, as long as they are difficult to make or acquire. Monetization may also refer to exchanging securities for currency, selling a possession, charging for something that used to be free or making money on goods or services that were previously unprofitable. Roxxeh said: Quote: Okay, I think I know how we could get a ton more users, at least for a while. Make a crazy quest in zomg for backwings. There will probably be a huge bawfest, but it will be a huge incentive. I think for a quick fix in numbers of members involved in "Gaia" that this is notably the most efficient and can be easily calendarized, seasonally or to holiday customs.. It will not only have an appeal to normally non-zOMG players but to others who are interested in spiffying up their town homes, avatars, "fishing equipment", Game tokens, Powerups, etc. It may be held at the slowest peak times of the year/seasons. But if you keep throwing "cash to play" items at them that are ridiculous high when they hit the marketplace, and then remove them, like the fortune ring etc., A lot of new comers will soon feel, inadequately capable of being equipped to play zOMG and will go where they don't feel at such an obvious dis- advantage. Comment: The time-old gaian-adage "well it is to please the people who vend" that really bugs me personally, but not enough to think that this attitude couldn't change to something a little less, arrogantly proposed as reason for why the item is being removed. *********************************************************** Everyone I know says that the MP psychology is the most aggravating of all, and believe it or not .. people do check to see what their kids are learning, subliminally, as well as overtly on sites such as these.Social Networking ************************************************************ Dumpster Dive is indicative of what I am saying about psychological implications to a family who advocates hard work will pay best and not handouts. Conclusion: At some point the adults on this site should/must reflect on what they are putting out there. ( the substance will continue to drive away the real deal, and the "Multiple account holders, will continue to bring this site's Debt/Asset* standings into what is maybe feasible from a strict "monetization" push, but in my opinion, will continue to drive patrons away. The chain is as strong as its weakest link Edited/reason/misspelling Inserted Asset Edited/reason/insertion see below this statement of explanation Summary: Although some here have characterize it as a "fight game" I don't/wouldn't for the life of zOMG describe it that way to my most Ardent Supporters of Interactive programming, who are: My Isps My students, Their parents, and My government. zOMG as I profess it, is an Interactive programming that if learned as was intially presented to the community of gaians, will sharpen the motor and visual skills of the Users/gaian. zOMG as a feature of a larger Community/Forum based Website, has in its power to Integrate seamlessly within this framework. zOMG and Fishing = "opportunity to sharpen those motor/visual skills" Gaia Mini Games = "opportunity to sharpen Other Cognitive Skills: Cognitive Development This is the child's ability to learn and solve problems. For example, this includes a two-month-old baby learning to explore the environment with hands or eyes or a five-year-old learning how to do simple math problems. Social and Emotional Development This is the child's ability to interact with others, including helping themselves and self-control. Examples of this type of development would include: a six-week-old baby smiling, a ten-month-old baby waving bye-bye, or a five-year-old boy knowing how to take turns in games at school. Speech and Language Development This is the child's ability to both understand and use language. For example, this includes a 12-month-old baby saying his first words, a two-year-old naming parts of her body, or a five-year-old learning to say "feet" instead of "foots". Fine Motor Skill Development This is the child's ability to use small muscles, specifically their hands and fingers, to pick up small objects, hold a spoon, turn pages in a book, or use a crayon to draw. Gross Motor Skill Development This is the child's ability to use large muscles. For example, a six-month-old baby learns how to sit up with some support, a 12-month-old baby learns to pull up to a stand holding onto furniture, and a five-year-old learns to skip. In my opinion The Gaia Games and Forum meet each of these standards. "However, throw a monkeywrench into the mix and all that is "extrinsically unique about Gaia" will be in the long run for naught" Since I have been on Gaia, Some Gaians have accused Gaia Interactive Inc. as being a mirror of some other sites. And as far as I have investigated and concluded from going to these other sites .. none of them come close to meeting all of the above "Developmental Skills/Milestones" that is necessary to insure an enriched experience: Only while visiting/engaging within the Gaia Interactive Environment can I state these Skills are/has been evident in its Open Debate/Comments and Personal/Profile/Journal Commentaries as well as in its Gaming Features. Footnote So, I wish, Pray that Gaia Staff never Fail their Original Dream of having and keeping Gaia "Unique" not a "Clone" of "All other Sites" "Incorporating a style is one thing ... eliminating or conflicting the above Developmental Skillsets is deplorable" Thank you for this opportunity to Respond.

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 06:21pm


	First of, thank you so much Pan for keeping us in the loop with what's going on. What's been so horribly frustrating about the zOMG situation is the lack of communication beyond the zOMG team. I'm really excited for more integration of zOMG in Gaia. I'm curious as to how the manga is going to work. For example, will zOMG have it's own spin-off, alternate universe kind of manga or will it be completely integrated into the site's main plot? I wouldn't mind either option, except it might be a little bit messier for the latter version. The biggest thing I'm concerned about is that the game continues to expand. While I can't play as much as I'd like to, I luckily this have things to do in the game since I haven't completed it yet. However, for the users who have, there's only so many times you can beat the final boss before interest wanes. Once new areas open up, I think interest will definitely increase. I still can't wait until we're able to visit other areas of the Gaia world, a la Aekea, Durem and Isle de Gambino.

MoonRosePetal
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Catalyste
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 06:36pm


	Let's not roll around in a world of fluff here. Now this isn't directed at you, Pan. But in general. 1. zOMG is no where near advertised enough either on the site nor on the web in general. You don't even use site wide announcements for zOMG, you just keep it under wraps in hopes that people will be interested. zOMG has a dedicated community of players of roughly 5%, but that's because those are players who frequent the forum and crew to make up interesting new ways of playing zOMG while Gaia is busy trying to pull the plug. 2. I think it's a lame attempt at decision making if you can't seem to utilize social networking sites for their ad space potential in getting people to sign up with zOMG and by extension Gaia itself. 3. We don't appreciate being lied to. Lots of people dedicated their time and effort in getting money or completing offers to help zOMG make quota. With news of Mavdoc's release from Gaia, we no longer know where our money went nor do we have confidence in your word. People were under the impression that zOMG making quota = saving the development team = zOMG still gets updates. Even though it was only 1 person, the fact that people were coming together to see all 4 members keep their jobs really made a scar on us. 4. We've been asking for a PvP for a very long time. Heck, you can even make a zOMG pet arena as well. But I'll tell you what, the Coliseum is lame. It's always us vs them. We get it, zOMG is about us beating up the animated. But do try to get that out of your head. What was created was another world. An extension of Gaia Online for the user experience. We'd like to have more of that world. ZOMG lost interest and volume as soon as people were able to hit the max CL and beat the End Boss over and over and over again. Promises of the elusive Chapter 2 was always dangling in front of our eyes. Exactly what do you expect to happen to an MMO that receives no new added areas for two to three years? Nerfing rings and adding random events to keep us distracted won't keep us there. Adding a Coliseum area where, once again, we're either crewing or solo against the animated is lame. Why? Think of fighting games. You have the option of going against the computer or against another person. Along with a good game engine and controls, it makes it a keeper during the course of time. Everyone knows how to beat a CPU, but human's are a different issue. Now how can this be integrated into the site more? You can make a storyline of how people were bored one day and decided to up and fight each other. You can create a story where the bosses of zOMG are rampaging across the site, attacking Gold Mountain (which still has yet to be linked to the Games main page for some reason guys....), attacking Rally, attacking the shops, infecting your PM box with Sushi Errors. You can create zOMG related furniture when you finally get to revamping Homes. You can make a zOMG item a rare catch for Fishing. You can create Racing Trophies (not zOMG badges) for people who can beat a zOMG boss in a race in Rally. Make a storyline where the zOMG pets are kidnapped (disabled for the course of the event) and you have to go onto zOMG and free them. During that time being introduced to new zOMG pets and the ability to be granted 1 new zOMG pet for free (1 per account).

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 07:16pm


	Makes complete sense, seeing as how Gaia was meant to be an MMO in the first place.

MiraiKishi
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Mooniewitch
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 07:18pm


	It'd be great if zomg was more integrated, but then we really need a way to start everything over. I'd hate to be excluded from quests because I made bad choices and am now essentially stuck in the game... (I mean I could probably advance if I really wanted to, but it'd take a LOHOT of orb farming which is beyond boring...)

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 07:26pm


	Awesome! I hope this works greatly. I really love zOMG and would totally enjoy it being more integrated. I Would also love it if my two buddies did more than just stand around. I would also like it if whatever upgrade they will get was not temporary. I would gladly pay cash or buy with gold a permanent upgrade or item for my buddies.

Kuroii Panda
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Evalinna
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Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 07:32pm


	While im happy that our little 5% got the attention of gaia higher ups, im saddened at Mav's lay off. But its business and i guess thats a good reason/ excuse. I do like this idea, but im unsure of how the greater community will react to it. I mean, its no inconvince to me personally, because i already love the game. For people who dont like/ can't play the game it may piss them off. And they might just ignore it completely, creating the same problem that the game faces right now. i suppose we will have to wait and see how things pan out. heres hoping that its a positive reaction and thank you pan for sharing this with us ~Eva

Commented on: Sat Jan 22, 2011 @ 07:33pm


	There was a rumor about the next zOMG pet might be a baby landy IF SO ILL BUY 4 OF THEM AND GIVE AWAY 3 I HEART LANDY AND its to support zOMG 8D

Psychotic Nerve
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