Virtual Family Kingdom Thread

[vmkfan13]

Hopefully when Mansion comes out, it is a witch hunt. Looking for witches instead of chasing ghosts. I know someone who would do great at it. :thumbsup2

They'll just call it Witch Busters..

[Bugdozer]

what i don't understand is the people in the lobby defending the fact that it is a pure copy of the game. I mean they must be brain washed. I was asked if I wrote that letter to Disney and I said yes. Then they said how could I defend them then after what they did. I replied I loved Disney before the game and love it after that will not change. The i was told well they left us and the game so VFK can pick up where they left off. Oh and i was told numerous times that they are doing the best they can-a complete copy is the best they can do-what a scary thought. At some point the big white glove will squash them....if they keep copying......

Bug

[aengus]

Hopefully when Mansion comes out, it is a witch hunt. Looking for witches instead of chasing ghosts. I know someone who would do great at it. :thumbsup2

ROFL I would PWN at that game! I live near Salem if you havent heard :)

[vmkfan13]

what i don't understand is the people in the lobby defending the fact that it is a pure copy of the game. I mean they must be brain washed. I was asked if I wrote that letter to Disney and I said yes. Then they said how could I defend them then after what they did. I replied I loved Disney before the game and love it after that will not change. The i was told well they left us and the game so VFK can pick up where they left off. Oh and i was told numerous times that they are doing the best they can-a complete copy is the best they can do-what a scary thought. At some point the big white glove will squash them....if they keep copying......

Bug

I know I'm stating the obvious but It's a complete copy just to cash in.. at least Disney's version was the original

I would just report it to Disney but I'm sure they know of it already, and plus I wouldn't want to be responsible for taking away another game..

[threeboysmom]

Arg, you guys! I try to stay away from this thread... I really do... but sometimes I can't resist the pull :)

The last three pages of this thread are FILLED with complaints of VFK being like VMK. Need I remind you all that this game was designed to replace VMK? It was designed to be like VMK - that's the whole point of this game!

If you can't accept that fact, then move on please. There are plenty of other games out there that are VERY different from VMK. Choose one and don't sign into VFK again. :teeth:

I know exactly what you mean, the pirates players will get their slap in the face next.

As for pirates, you all know I LIVED in that pirate lobby. It was my life. If they can bring a copycat version of that game to life again, I will be ecstatic. Oh yeah, slap me baby! I can't wait!! :banana:

[aengus]

what i don't understand is the people in the lobby defending the fact that it is a pure copy of the game. I mean they must be brain washed. I was asked if I wrote that letter to Disney and I said yes. Then they said how could I defend them then after what they did. I replied I loved Disney before the game and love it after that will not change. The i was told well they left us and the game so VFK can pick up where they left off. Oh and i was told numerous times that they are doing the best they can-a complete copy is the best they can do-what a scary thought. At some point the big white glove will squash them....if they keep copying......

Bug

Those people need to learn that VMK closed down. All thats happening now is people are ruining the memories of a fantastic game.

[Bugdozer]

Arg, you guys! I try to stay away from this thread... I really do... but sometimes I can't resist the pull :)

The last three pages of this thread are FILLED with complaints of VFK being like VMK. Need I remind you all that this game was designed to replace VMK? It was designed to be like VMK - that's the whole point of this game!

If you can't accept that fact, then move on please. There are plenty of other games out there that are VERY different from VMK. Choose one and don't sign into VFK again. :teeth:



As for pirates, you all know I LIVED in that pirate lobby. It was my life. If they can bring a copycat version of that game to life again, I will be ecstatic. Oh yeah, slap me baby! I can't wait!! :banana:


Sorry I don't agree pink :) They are trying to cash in on VMK and I think that is despicable. I keep hoping it will change but it does not. Part of me now is just waiting for Disney to crumble it down.

Bug

[threeboysmom]

Those people need to learn that VMK closed down. All thats happening now is people are ruining the memories of a fantastic game.

Aengus, I realize that VMK closed down. Good grief. However, there is nothing wrong with wanting a game that is similar to VMK. Isn't that truly what we've all been seeking in some way or another?

[Bugdozer]

Aengus, I realize that VMK closed down. Good grief. However, there is nothing wrong with wanting a game that is similar to VMK. Isn't that truly what we've all been seeking in some way or another?

This goes beyond similar it is a copy. And no I did not want similar. I thought this was going to be a great family game based on history with fresh new ideas and new games. We got a almost carbon copy all the way down to quests and fireworks......sad and pitiful....

[aengus]

Arg, you guys! I try to stay away from this thread... I really do... but sometimes I can't resist the pull :)

The last three pages of this thread are FILLED with complaints of VFK being like VMK. Need I remind you all that this game was designed to replace VMK? It was designed to be like VMK - that's the whole point of this game!

If you can't accept that fact, then move on please. There are plenty of other games out there that are VERY different from VMK. Choose one and don't sign into VFK again. :teeth:



As for pirates, you all know I LIVED in that pirate lobby. It was my life. If they can bring a copycat version of that game to life again, I will be ecstatic. Oh yeah, slap me baby! I can't wait!! :banana:


believe me pink, their version will only make you sad. It will be inferior.

I am well aware it was designed to be like vmk, but look at it.

Its just an inferior product with similarities. Its like this game was made first in a way, very rarely do you see a game go backwards in development.

[threeboysmom]

Sorry I don't agree pink :) They are trying to cash in on VMK and I think that is despicable. I keep hoping it will change but it does not. Part of me now is just waiting for Disney to crumble it down.

Bug

Bug, I can respect your decision, but I can't for the life of me figure out why you and all those that nitpick this game to death STILL go on? Either it's "despicable" or it's not....

Every single one of you here complaining about the game ARE SIGNING INTO THIS GAME. If you can't stomach the fact that it's copying VMK or feel "it's ruining my memories" then don't sign in! THAT'S what I'm having a problem with here.

[aengus]

Every single one of you here complaining about the game ARE SIGNING INTO THIS GAME. If you can't stomach the fact that it's copying VMK or feel "it's ruining my memories" then don't sign in! THAT'S what I'm having a problem with here.

havent logged in since the first saturday after its release :)

I am not ok with them ripping off this community.

[TinkPinkPoem]

Bug, I can respect your decision, but I can't for the life of me figure out why you and all those that nitpick this game to death STILL go on? Either it's "despicable" or it's not....

Every single one of you here complaining about the game ARE SIGNING INTO THIS GAME. If you can't stomach the fact that it's copying VMK or feel "it's ruining my memories" then don't sign in! THAT'S what I'm having a problem with here.

Well I TRY to sign in to have an opinion, but they have me on the single user mode and none of my calls for help haver been heard.

Because it is an original, fully fledged game.:rolleyes:

[threeboysmom]

You know what, I get your message LOUD AND CLEAR. You hate the game. Lots of you do.

It's almost as if you purposely sign into VFK to find all the negative things and then come running back here to post your disgust. Well, that does nothing for our DIS community, NOTHING.

[disvaclub92]

Arg, you guys! I try to stay away from this thread... I really do... but sometimes I can't resist the pull :)

The last three pages of this thread are FILLED with complaints of VFK being like VMK. Need I remind you all that this game was designed to replace VMK? It was designed to be like VMK - that's the whole point of this game!

If you can't accept that fact, then move on please. There are plenty of other games out there that are VERY different from VMK. Choose one and don't sign into VFK again. :teeth:


I understand their goal was to be like VMK. Never did I think that they would mimic like this. Have some originality here, is that too much to ask from them? Now that VFK has two mini-games similar to the Disney VMK design and they have taken money from people for the game, it kind of makes me feel bad. What if Disney does get the glove out? I feel bad for these people who bought in. What happens to them?

[TinkPinkPoem]

I think this game has some positives but they are really many negatives which overshadow them.

And our community should be aware of both aspects of the game and I think that is what this thread is here for.

So those who have something good or bad to say and avoid this thread don't help the community.

[Bugdozer]

I think this game has some positives but they are really many negatives which overshadow them.

And our community should be aware of both aspects of the game and I think that is what this thread is here for.

So those who have something good or bad to say and avoid this thread don't help the community.

Well said.

I go back in hopes that it will change and be it's own great game. But it doesn't and we come here to voice our concern.

Bug

[vmkfan13]

By the way, you can edit the instructions LOL

[threeboysmom]

I understand their goal was to be like VMK. Never did I think that they would mimic like this. Have some originality here, is that too much to ask from them? Now that VFK has two mini-games similar to the Disney VMK design and they have taken money from people for the game, it kind of makes me feel bad. What if Disney does get the glove out? I feel bad for these people who bought in. What happens to them?

Sorry, Dis. If people want to throw their money away on a game that is still in its very early stages with no guarantee of success, then that's there own choice and own responsiblity. People throw money away every day in the lotteries :) and I don't feel bad for them one bit. It's THEIR choice to do so.

I honestly wish this thread would just get deleted. It's done nothing but tear us apart and cause us to bicker and argue. Passions run high when VMK is brought into the picture, understandably so. But our true goal should be to strengthen our community here on the DIS, and I don't see that happening with this thread.

My life is falling apart, and I came on here tonight to seek out a respite, to find a place among friends, and I don't know... this thread just hit me where it hurts. I'm sitting here in tears over the fighting amongst friends. Arg, today was not the day to open this thread - my fault! :) And I apologize for my emotional outburts... well, because I AM emotional today, but that's beside the point)

The game will be like VMK. Don't wish and hope for something different. It's not going to happen and you'll only end up disappointed.

[TinkPinkPoem]

Sorry, Dis. If people want to throw their money away on a game that is still in its very early stages with no guarantee of success, then that's there own choice and own responsiblity. People throw money away every day in the lotteries :) and I don't feel bad for them one bit. It's THEIR choice to do so.

I honestly wish this thread would just get deleted. It's done nothing but tear us apart and cause us to bicker and argue. Passions run high when VMK is brought into the picture, understandably so. But our true goal should be to strengthen our community here on the DIS, and I don't see that happening with this thread.

My life is falling apart, and I came on here tonight to seek out a respite, to find a place among friends, and I don't know... this thread just hit me where it hurts. I'm sitting here in tears over the fighting amongst friends. Arg, today was not the day to open this thread - my fault! :) And I apologize for my emotional outburts... well, because I AM emotional today, but that's beside the point)

The game will be like VMK. Don't wish and hope for something different. It's not going to happen and you'll only end up disappointed.


:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:

Please don't be sad, it's just a discussion over a silly game.

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

what i don't understand is the people in the lobby defending the fact that it is a pure copy of the game. I mean they must be brain washed. I was asked if I wrote that letter to Disney and I said yes. Then they said how could I defend them then after what they did. I replied I loved Disney before the game and love it after that will not change. The i was told well they left us and the game so *** can pick up where they left off. Oh and i was told numerous times that they are doing the best they can-a complete copy is the best they can do-what a scary thought. At some point the big white glove will squash them....if they keep copying......

Bug

Hopefully

[disvaclub92]

Hugs Pink - :hug:

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

Sorry, Dis. If people want to throw their money away on a game that is still in its very early stages with no guarantee of success, then that's there own choice and own responsiblity. People throw money away every day in the lotteries :) and I don't feel bad for them one bit. It's THEIR choice to do so.

I honestly wish this thread would just get deleted. It's done nothing but tear us apart and cause us to bicker and argue. Passions run high when VMK is brought into the picture, understandably so. But our true goal should be to strengthen our community here on the DIS, and I don't see that happening with this thread.

My life is falling apart, and I came on here tonight to seek out a respite, to find a place among friends, and I don't know... this thread just hit me where it hurts. I'm sitting here in tears over the fighting amongst friends. Arg, today was not the day to open this thread - my fault! :) And I apologize for my emotional outburts... well, because I AM emotional today, but that's beside the point)

The game will be like VMK. Don't wish and hope for something different. It's not going to happen and you'll only end up disappointed.
Agree 100%

And, since I don't feel like finding it, I agree 100% with the person that said that games should be original

And hugshttp://www.wdwinfo.com/images/smilies/hug.gifhttp://www.wdwinfo.com/images/smilies/hug.gifhttp://www.wdwinfo.com/images/smilies/hug.gifhttp://www.wdwinfo.com/images/smilies/hug.gifhttp://www.wdwinfo.com/images/smilies/hug.gifhttp://www.wdwinfo.com/images/smilies/hug.gifhttp://www.wdwinfo.com/images/smilies/hug.gifhttp://www.wdwinfo.com/images/smilies/hug.gif

[aengus]

:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:

Please don't be sad, it's just a discussion over a silly game.

silly? AND UGLY!


:rotfl:


hugs pink :hug:

[Dreamytime]

It was designed to be like VMK - that's the whole point of this game!


Well then...They need to do a MUCH better job to be like VMK.

[TinkPinkPoem]

silly? AND UGLY!


:rotfl:




Well I didn't want to get into details..it would take me
3.275 posts to explain :rotfl:

Yet more hugs Pink :hug:

[Sugar]

I've only logged on to the game once to three times a week in the hopes that it would improve each time I login. And it HAS. While there have been many timelines broken, there is always something new when I log on.

Quests have even gotten better...

I stink at the Audubon game, so I'm going to try my hand at the Fireworks game when it opens, and by the discussion here, seems like it has. So here I go!

I do respect all opinions regarding this game. I'm still riding the fence; while I can see why some think one way, I try to look at the good things in the game, and yesterday, I finally found so many friends that I haven't found previously - A definite plus!

*logging into VFK now*

Hugs all around!
Sugar

[Belle1997]

At what point does this cross the line into enough copyright infringement for Disney to notice? I hadn't played the bird game until last night but the movement and the pacing is exactly like jungle cruise, and now this? How in the world is this site still open?


Can someone explain to me how this is jungle cruise. Yes you click but you got to know your birds. I know many players who where awesome at jungle cruise and can not get over 100 in birds. Average high score being 10,000 to 25,000

Yes the movements are very similar but learning the birds is much much harder than jungle cruise was. I find the pacing much different in birds, actually I play it much slower than I ever played jungle cruise. You are rewarded for knowledge not for knowing how fast to click when an animal comes out.

In jungle cruise I would get 20 credits no mater how hard I tried and only the top ten would get 750. Here everyone is rewarded for there own ability.

Now I can average 3,000 to 5,000 a game after weeks of practice.

And yes there is a lot of very similar stuff in VFK but hey Disney is the one that closed the doors on us. So close them down because they crossed the line. Who wins no one at all. We still have no game to call our home.

There is still no game out there for all of us to play like VMK. And I do believe there never will. Why because unless Disney recreates VMK there will be nothing that has the disney magic. Or in some cases the worst black whole response in the Disney history. Nothing where we could relive our love of Disney. Where we all looked so cute. But I also remember many many dark days on VMK too where I was in tears more than once and I was an adult.

I do not forget the great highs or the great disappointment I felt too often either.

People say we are so in there to get them to make a game we all can play. We need a family game we can all go to. That is why we are so hard on them.

Well it looks like they are not going to meet that need. So why waste your time if in the end they are just going to get sued. Or too many leave because it is not for them.

yes it is sad many had high hopes for VFK as a possible replacement. Which we can see it is not for most of the players on this board.

Yes I get bored on VFK too. But I also have lots of laughs too. So I do not worry about they did that or didn't do that. It is the chuckles I get from my friends. The kids I knew on VMK that now we have met up have a sparkle in their eyes again.

Yes I do worry that that sparkle we be crushed again. It is all possible and that is what worries me the most. The hurt kids if this game does not work. I encourage them to enjoy the time thye have on this game. Because being so new it just might make it to full release. Many many are having fun on this new place. So until someone can show me a better game I will stay with VFK. I tried all the others people are talking about. I got bored on Small worlds. Witchcraft and wizards is not for me. Social Town (sp?) made me stop in the the first five minutes of the game never to return again.

And there is only so much I can do on webkinz. Pirates is to much fighting for me.

But until then we will enjoy the fun we are making together on this refugee site.

I will never play another disney game until the management changes at WDIG!!!.

I just wish we had a thread where I could post funny bugs. Get tips on how to play fireworks without so much lag making it almost impossible to play.

To have the old cheering squad when we used to get our new high scores. where people would stop by to see what we built in our rooms. And yes I do have a very cute and creative clock on VFK :)

But the joy of sharing all the fun I do fine on VFK is not worth posting through the pages of critisim. because it will just get lost. just as most of my VMK friends on dis have been lost to other games and boards.

Nothing has changed since day one of this game. To many it is not creative, lacks proper child proof controls, the characters are boring, They are building the game backwards and not right. They are not up front and honest with us. They have no clue what they are doing and what they are doing is a very bad copy. Too much like VMK makes you cry to play it. hey if disney did not close the door and treat us so poorly we would never have had this thread. I still have not received a from letter from any of the letters I mailed. !!!

Ok so where are we going with all this. To me I like the fact they used the older version of fireworks. I hated the remix. But I hate the lag even more in this game. So I can not even play this game. But I do love the music:) So it shows they are far form being able to create games using as little memory as possible.

Now how many versions are there of PACMAN. Or astriods, or solitary. Many types of versions of Donkey Kong not to mention Bejewelled. How many role playing games are basically the same???

I would have liked to see a very different fireworks game!!! But in reality how could they.?? Any possible suggestion out there. To me that would be more constructive. What type of fireworks would you build.

You never know maybe they need inspiration from its players. I for one have no idea. But there are enough gamers out there. I am sure a great game could be created just from sharing.

I think if I saw the threads like they used to be constructive as they should do this and that. Then we are going somewhere.

I was always taught it is fine to complain but make sure when you do you have some ideas to make it better. because if you can not think of a better way then there is no way to created positive change.

So tonight we have learned that VFK seems to be in copy right infringement. Many want the full site closed down. But I have yet to see any suggestions to make it better?

So unless some miracle happens VMK is lost in our happy and sad memories.


Big Hugs to PINK !!! I was not going to post but how could I not after your posts.

[TLinden16]

I just got my first glimpse at VFK live and in action thanks to a kind soul who let me log on as their character, and I have to say the game is exactly what I would expect it to be--a cheap ripoff imitation of VMK.

This game is such a clear violation of Disney's patented, copyrighted, and trademarked intellectual property that I have to believe that Disney will do something to shut this game down, especially now that they are taking money for the game. Disney has filed oppositions and sent cease and desist letters for a lot less than this. My guess is that Disney has either sent a cease and desist letter, and VFK has chosen to ignore it, or they are preparing to file and opposition, but are waiting until they have enough of a leg to stand on.

Until Disney does something about this, I will just remind people of this saying:

Let the buyer beware.

If and when Disney does all they can to shut VFK down, you may have no recourse to get back any money you spend on this game.

Remember, this is a company that registered a Domain Name for Virtual Family Kingdom the day after VMK announced it would be closing. They used graphics that were stolen from VMK in their initial announcement, and now they have games out that are cheap imitations of the games that VMK. This is a company with very shady business practices who has tried to prey on people when the game they loved closed.

I personally, can not and will not support a company that is trying to take advantage of people like VFK is. If others want to, that's their business, but if you're on the fence about paying for membership, just use caution.

[disvaclub92]

I think if I saw the threads like they used to be constructive as they should do this and that. Then we are going somewhere.

So tonight we have learned that VFK seems to be in copy right infringement. Many want the full site closed down. But I have yet to see any suggestions to make it better?

I had a suggestion in a post a while back.:goodvibes

Hopefully when Mansion comes out, it is a witch hunt. Looking for witches instead of chasing ghosts. I know someone who would do great at it. :thumbsup2

[WWEDUDE]

Folks, sorry, but wouldn't you have done ANYTHING to play your fireworks game again? But we are being so critical of VFK we can't appreciate when they are filling our wishes. I for one can't wait until space pirates come out, because I love pirates! I can never get VMK back, and I haved moved on, and I completely welcome anything that is like it.

*cough* VFKG has 5 layouts, I loved making the VMK one *cough* :goodvibes ;)

[aengus]

I just got my first glimpse at VFK live and in action thanks to a kind soul who let me log on as their character, and I have to say the game is exactly what I would expect it to be--a cheap ripoff imitation of VMK.

This game is such a clear violation of Disney's patented, copyrighted, and trademarked intellectual property that I have to believe that Disney will do something to shut this game down, especially now that they are taking money for the game. Disney has filed oppositions and sent cease and desist letters for a lot less than this. My guess is that Disney has either sent a cease and desist letter, and VFK has chosen to ignore it, or they are preparing to file and opposition, but are waiting until they have enough of a leg to stand on.

Until Disney does something about this, I will just remind people of this saying:

Let the buyer beware.

If and when Disney does all they can to shut VFK down, you may have no recourse to get back any money you spend on this game.

Remember, this is a company that registered a Domain Name for Virtual Family Kingdom the day after VMK announced it would be closing. They used graphics that were stolen from VMK in their initial announcement, and now they have games out that are cheap imitations of the games that VMK. This is a company with very shady business practices who has tried to prey on people when the game they loved closed.

I personally, can not and will not support a company that is trying to take advantage of people like VFK is. If others want to, that's their business, but if you're on the fence about paying for membership, just use caution.

they also registered vmkv2.com the day after :thumbsup2

[AmberDaze]

I couldn't get past level 1, the moment I noticed the timing was almost the same, the way that you move is exactly the same, and the feeling of the game is dead on VMK...I just lost it. I spent my entire (almost entire) VMK life in that lobby, as many of you can attest. This is just a slap in the face and breaks my heart.
Feels just like the last time we all played fireworks together, Geggy, Days, Alias, Wonder, Jedi...all of us...except the magic is gone and never will return.

Hugs to you Night. I have such mixed feelings toward playing this fireworks game, nevermind that I have only been playing remixed for more than the past year! I played the entire 1st level, twice. I exited after the end of the 1st level. Besides not having a clue as to which game I'm supposed to be "following," I have such memories coming back to me of VMK's fireworks, that I just don't have the desire yet to really play and figure this game out.

The graphics are really bad in my opinion. And as far as the exit button is concerned..they could at least put up a window telling you "Are you sure you want to quit? I don't think so! Get back there and finish the game and you'll see how cute it is!". No?:rotfl:

ROFL. I kept getting pulled back in as well, and had to click on the map and walk to actually get out of it.

You know what, I get your message LOUD AND CLEAR. You hate the game. Lots of you do. It's almost as if you purposely sign into VFK to find all the negative things and then come running back here to post your disgust. Well, that does nothing for our DIS community, NOTHING.

My main purpose of signing onto VFK is to visit with friends who enjoy the game. I have very mixed feelings about all that is the same -- but I basically feel that there will never be another VMK, no matter what anyone does. That's probably the reason why I've been spending time in and enjoying other games more these days.

Hugs to you Pink. :hug: :hug:

I try to look at the good things in the game, and yesterday, I finally found so many friends that I haven't found previously - A definite plus!

It was great to find you in VFK last night, Sugar! I too try and sign on just a few times a week -- it's so wonderful to catch up with friends, no matter which game I log into.

Hugs everyone. :hug:

[vmkfan13]

they also registered vmkv2.com the day after :thumbsup2

My first reaction.. OMG THEY COPIED BARBIE GIRL! I didn't even care about the Mad Tea Party Room copy..

[Mnementh]

My life is falling apart, and I came on here tonight to seek out a respite, to find a place among friends, and I don't know... this thread just hit me where it hurts. I'm sitting here in tears over the fighting amongst friends. Arg, today was not the day to open this thread - my fault! :) And I apologize for my emotional outburts... well, because I AM emotional today, but that's beside the point)

Sorry things are going so poorly right now for you, Pink :( I hope everything you're going through now passes quickly pixiedust:

I've been following this thread since page one and only occassionally dropping in to post a comment. I've seen floods of positives followed by floods of negatives followed by more positives. I just want to say that nothing said on here strikes me as actual "fighting" so much as a civilized discussion. There has been no yelling, no name-calling, nothing found in what is typically called a "fight". I just really hope you don't look at this as your friends fighting any longer and look at it as them discussing the pros and cons of a game.

[Mamacita]

Giant hugs all around :grouphug:
Of the people criticizing vfk, I haven't seen even one of us criticizing the people who like vfk. I understand that you are enjoying it, please understand that I have serious concerns about the integrity of the company running it.

Copyright is serious. Whether a company is currently using copyrighted materials or not doesn't matter. It belongs to them and to copy it is to break the law. VMK being closed does not give VFK the right to steal.

Child safety is extremely serious. From what I've seen I wouldn't allow my children to play this game for anything. I can just see a predator joining up with the kids on the message boards complaining about their mean parents not paying for them, then offering to let them join his family when he "talks his parents into letting him sign up". Kids who want something don't always do what their told and many would disobey their parents and send their log in info to a "nice kid who is just like them". I just hope it hasn't already happened. Remember parents have been told this is a child safe game and I would bet most are not watching closely.

If VFK shuts down and any kids hearts are broken it won't be the fault of those who criticize it, it will be the fault of VFK for their poor business practices.

[Sugar]

Let the buyer beware.

Woot! Caveat emptor! :cool1:

if you're on the fence about paying for membership, just use caution.

I would never pay for membership in a new company like this :). But I guess if Disney will sue, there went the money they made from people who paid anyway... gasp! ;)

- Sugar :)

It was great to find you in VFK last night, Sugar! I too try and sign on just a few times a week -- it's so wonderful to catch up with friends, no matter which game I log into.

Aww thanks! That's the same idea I have, though I would like to go onto only one and find all of my friends... I knew that would be the main problem when VMK closed

- Sugar :)

[vmkfan13]

Giant hugs all around :grouphug:
Of the people criticizing vfk, I haven't seen even one of us criticizing the people who like vfk. I understand that you are enjoying it, please understand that I have serious concerns about the integrity of the company running it.

Copyright is serious. Whether a company is currently using copyrighted materials or not doesn't matter. It belongs to them and to copy it is to break the law. VMK being closed does not give VFK the right to steal.

Child safety is extremely serious. From what I've seen I wouldn't allow my children to play this game for anything. I can just see a predator joining up with the kids on the message boards complaining about their mean parents not paying for them, then offering to let them join his family when he "talks his parents into letting him sign up". Kids who want something don't always do what their told and many would disobey their parents and send their log in info to a "nice kid who is just like them". I just hope it hasn't already happened. Remember parents have been told this is a child safe game and I would bet most are not watching closely.

If VFK shuts down and any kids hearts are broken it won't be the fault of those who criticize it, it will be the fault of VFK for their poor business practices.

It's sad but true, there will always be predators especially on these free browser games. The forums are similar in a way to VMK's forums but I guess I would point fingers at VFK for being a bad role model and asking for our personal info.

[Sugar]

It's sad but true, there will always be predators especially on these free browser games. The forums are similar in a way to VMK's forums but I guess I would point fingers at VFK for being a bad role model and asking for our personal info.

I missed the whole subscription deal that happened last week I guess... What info did they ask for??:sad2:

[vmkfan13]

I missed the whole subscription deal that happened last week I guess... What info did they ask for??:sad2:

Addresses, phone numbers! Go back to page ~190 for more info.

[AmberDaze]

That's the same idea I have, though I would like to go onto only one and find all of my friends... I knew that would be the main problem when VMK closed

Yes, that would certainly make things easier. As of now, I am visiting friends in at least 3 games. :)

[Cardinal]

I personally, can not and will not support a company that is trying to take advantage of people like VFK is. If others want to, that's their business, but if you're on the fence about paying for membership, just use caution.

Guys, let me make this clear for you:

~Look at one side of the fence. It is lush, green, and filled with woodland creatures and pretty flowers. This is the side of the non-subscriber.

~Look at the fence. The fence is pointy, sharp, and covered in paint remover. You do not want to be on that fence.

~Look at the other side of the fence. It is filled with smog, cease and desist orders, lawsuits, and reruns of Friends. This is the side of the subscriber.


Which side do you want to be on? :rolleyes1

[vmkfan13]

Guys, let me make this clear for you:

~Look at one side of the fence. It is lush, green, and filled with woodland creatures and pretty flowers. This is the side of the non-subscriber.

~Look at the fence. The fence is pointy, sharp, and covered in paint remover. You do not want to be on that fence.

~Look at the other side of the fence. It is filled with smog, cease and desist orders, lawsuits, and reruns of Friends. This is the side of the subscriber.


Which side do you want to be on? :rolleyes1

The fence sounds like fun!

[Mamacita]

I missed the whole subscription deal that happened last week I guess... What info did they ask for??:sad2:

Problem is they are offering a family plan that can include up to 20 people that requires the purchaser of the plan to have the user ids and passwords of anybody they add to their family. I forsee "families" being created on message boards and people getting kids usernames and passwords who should not have them. At best, scammers, at worst, predators.

[Adambinder]

Its an OK game. When im bored, I log in.

Even though they are trying to copy VMK, I like the game.

I missed fireworks very much on VMK, and when they brought the game back on VFK I was happy.

You guys are forgetting something. VFK developers opened the game very early. They could have waited awhile to open, but they didn't.

I actually see many people who payed, and are happy.

If you hate the game, dont play it, and dont talk about it.

If you have nothing nice to say, dont say it at all.

You can say they are copying VMK all you want, and you can say they are doing a terrible job, but they are trying their best.

[AdventurersClub]

Its an OK game. When im bored, I log in.

Even though they are trying to copy VMK, I like the game.

I missed fireworks very much on VMK, and when they brought the game back on VFK I was happy.

You guys are forgetting something. VFK developers opened the game very early. They could have waited awhile to open, but they didn't.

I actually see many people who payed, and are happy.

If you hate the game, dont play it, and dont talk about it.

If you have nothing nice to say, dont say it at all.

You can say they are copying VMK all you want, and you can say they are doing a terrible job, but they are trying their best.

It doesn't matter what their "best" happens to be, stealing is breaking the law, and no amount of effort on their part will change it. I haven't seen anyone say anything that isn't "nice" just to use caution. Telling us not to state our opinion is a bit out of line, I haven't seen any posts implying they "hate" the game, this is only a discussion of our opinions based on what we have witnessed.

If the only way they could open the game was by stealing ideas from VMK, perhaps they should have waited and opened at a later date.

[lizbeth374]

Guys, let me make this clear for you:

~Look at one side of the fence. It is lush, green, and filled with woodland creatures and pretty flowers. This is the side of the non-subscriber.

~Look at the fence. The fence is pointy, sharp, and covered in paint remover. You do not want to be on that fence.

~Look at the other side of the fence. It is filled with smog, cease and desist orders, lawsuits, and reruns of Friends. This is the side of the subscriber.


Which side do you want to be on? :rolleyes1


But I like Friends reruns.:love:

[OctoPie]

But I like Friends reruns.:love:

I know don't you love janice! "OMG its Chanelor Bing! *weird laugh*" :rotfl2: Good times

[lizbeth374]

I know don't you love janice! "OMG its Chanelor Bing! *weird laugh*" :rotfl2: Good times

Yes! Love Janice!!
"My little bing a ling!" lol :rotfl:

[Goofy05]

I really do try my best to leave this thread alone, but I see so many misguided kids that I can't stay away.
I've been told I was negative in my posts and a 'naysayer', however my concern then is the same as it is now, protecting the kids. I don't play vfk, I refuse to for many reasons, not the least of which is the lack of safety of personal information. VFK has done it again, with this new "Founders" package that promises unique items to "families" of up to 20 members. Simple enough, in theory, but in practice, kids are FAR too trusting and will give other players their personal login info for that pretty silver hat that won't be available to anyone who isn't a "founding member" and may some day actually be "rare". I cannot, in good conscience, let this slide. It's just wrong in SO many ways. I don't care about what games they have copied from vmk or which former vmk staff are working for vfk, let vfk handle the legal issues and let the moderators live with their own personal choices for employment in a poor economy. I am only concerned for the children who WILL give out their passwords for the sake of a token virtual prize. Call me whatever name you wish, I stand by my decision to keep a look out for the kids' safety. I do not now, nor will I in the future, play vfk. I do the quests, when I can, for the sole purpose of gifting those items later to anyone who wasn't able to log on for the quests. End of story.
I am saddened by vfk's lack of direction. When they first announced their new game, I was ecstatic! A new idea! History! What happened to that? They have no plan, no clear direction and that only means failure. Any business without a sound plan is destined to fail. I won't sit around and wait for that, I've already moved on to Wizard101 and I'm having a great time! It's original, it's fun and I've met some awesome former vmk players there. I'm happy in my new virtual 'home'. Yes, there is room for improvement, but all-in-all it is a quality game and safe for children.

Pink: I'm sorry things aren't going well in your world. I hope things improve for you. I know I've used the magic of vmk to get me through some tough emotional times, and I truly hope you find that same comfort with your friends and family. ~hugs~

[Bugdozer]

Giant hugs all around :grouphug:
Of the people criticizing vfk, I haven't seen even one of us criticizing the people who like vfk. I understand that you are enjoying it, please understand that I have serious concerns about the integrity of the company running it.

Copyright is serious. Whether a company is currently using copyrighted materials or not doesn't matter. It belongs to them and to copy it is to break the law. VMK being closed does not give VFK the right to steal.

Child safety is extremely serious. From what I've seen I wouldn't allow my children to play this game for anything. I can just see a predator joining up with the kids on the message boards complaining about their mean parents not paying for them, then offering to let them join his family when he "talks his parents into letting him sign up". Kids who want something don't always do what their told and many would disobey their parents and send their log in info to a "nice kid who is just like them". I just hope it hasn't already happened. Remember parents have been told this is a child safe game and I would bet most are not watching closely.

If VFK shuts down and any kids hearts are broken it won't be the fault of those who criticize it, it will be the fault of VFK for their poor business practices.

Well said and very true. I agree with you.


Its an OK game. When im bored, I log in.

Even though they are trying to copy VMK, I like the game.

I missed fireworks very much on VMK, and when they brought the game back on VFK I was happy.

You guys are forgetting something. VFK developers opened the game very early. They could have waited awhile to open, but they didn't.

I actually see many people who payed, and are happy.

If you hate the game, dont play it, and dont talk about it.

If you have nothing nice to say, dont say it at all.

You can say they are copying VMK all you want, and you can say they are doing a terrible job, but they are trying their best.

Could have waited to open the game? they Should have waited until they had a quality product with their own great ideas and not some cheap knock off of VMK. A debate is facts between 2 sides and I see this as a debate-people are not fighting- heck I wanted them to succeed but as their own new innovative game.


It doesn't matter what their "best" happens to be, stealing is breaking the law, and no amount of effort on their part will change it. I haven't seen anyone say anything that isn't "nice" just to use caution. Telling us not to state our opinion is a bit out of line, I haven't seen any posts implying they "hate" the game, this is only a discussion of our opinions based on what we have witnessed.

If the only way they could open the game was by stealing ideas from VMK, perhaps they should have waited and opened at a later date.

Well said :)

I really do try my best to leave this thread alone, but I see so many misguided kids that I can't stay away.
I've been told I was negative in my posts and a 'naysayer', however my concern then is the same as it is now, protecting the kids. I don't play vfk, I refuse to for many reasons, not the least of which is the lack of safety of personal information. VFK has done it again, with this new "Founders" package that promises unique items to "families" of up to 20 members. Simple enough, in theory, but in practice, kids are FAR too trusting and will give other players their personal login info for that pretty silver hat that won't be available to anyone who isn't a "founding member" and may some day actually be "rare". I cannot, in good conscience, let this slide. It's just wrong in SO many ways. I don't care about what games they have copied from vmk or which former vmk staff are working for vfk, let vfk handle the legal issues and let the moderators live with their own personal choices for employment in a poor economy. I am only concerned for the children who WILL give out their passwords for the sake of a token virtual prize. Call me whatever name you wish, I stand by my decision to keep a look out for the kids' safety. I do not now, nor will I in the future, play vfk. I do the quests, when I can, for the sole purpose of gifting those items later to anyone who wasn't able to log on for the quests. End of story.
I am saddened by vfk's lack of direction. When they first announced their new game, I was ecstatic! A new idea! History! What happened to that? They have no plan, no clear direction and that only means failure. Any business without a sound plan is destined to fail. I won't sit around and wait for that, I've already moved on to Wizard101 and I'm having a great time! It's original, it's fun and I've met some awesome former vmk players there. I'm happy in my new virtual 'home'. Yes, there is room for improvement, but all-in-all it is a quality game and safe for children.

Pink: I'm sorry things aren't going well in your world. I hope things improve for you. I know I've used the magic of vmk to get me through some tough emotional times, and I truly hope you find that same comfort with your friends and family. ~hugs~

:hug: I agree on most of this. In the end I hope the kids are not hurt. Many things this company has done are shady in my book and I simply do not trust them yet. The way they announced this game, rounded up past staff, have registered domain names with vmk in it all show them in a bad light. The fact that the site is still an insecure login baffles me. Why are they "moving" forward when they are not fixing the obvious?

VKF please go down a different road-show us you can give us a wonderful game based on your own ideas and thoughts and not a poor rip off of VMK and show us we can trust you by showing individuality on becoming your own game.

Bug

[Dreamytime]

As for the security issue that the founders thing 'might' have started, I saw a post for the following on another site:

Wanted: Founders Family
I missed the sign up to become a founder. Wondering if I can join yours. PLMK.

I also know of a friend who has joined a 'family' of another. The family's head I trust, but for 1 trustworthy person how many untrustworthy people are there available to join.

Pink, I'm sorry if you feel this is tainting the integrity or family feel of the boards, but these are legitimate concerns that need to be looked at closely. I do not feel that any post, negative or positive, has done anything other that spark dialog about ways that VFK has to make improvements or changes to not only make a marketable game but one with longevity and safety.

I do want it to succeed. However I have been playing Wizard101 and POTCO until VFK was out of this not so secure, not really ready for public, not really usable form. I had not logged into VFK for weeks until someone posted that the fireworks game was up. I was excited. But when I clicked play I was just overwhelmed by sadness..the familiarity of Fireworks on VMK..all the memories....an emotion we all know so well. It made the closing of VMK and the fun that we had there in my favorite lobby come back in ocean waves. My post about the fireworks game and my deep sadness was just that...a post about being saddened once again that VMK is gone and not coming back. It was a post needing a hug, which a got, from my Dis family.

[SharkMeal]

The fireworks game... It looks... strangely familiar. :scratchin

[Disney Dreams]

I have to say, I don't get it.

Didn't everyone want someone to create a new VMK if Disney insisted upon closing our beloved Funville?

They are attempting to give exactly that, as close as they can without copying exactly.

I own my own business which is 100% a creative venture. I know full well that someone could change a few key features of my product and have a new product of their own. I have everything copyright protected, but it does not take much to alter a product enough to be considered different. It's a risk of creative ventures.

Have I found the magic in VFK? No, sadly I have not. However, did I think people would embrace the fireworks game? Oh yeah. I am really surprised. Didn't everyone say they wanted someone to create another VMK? I'm with Pink. If a pirates game comes out that is like that which I miss so dearly and through which I shared so many great memories with friends - I'll be on the dock. Will it be VMK? Nope. Nothing ever will be. Will it be the fun I miss? Hopefully.

Remember, something only has to be changed a certain amount to be legally different. How much is enough? That's a decision courts make every day. It's really not worth fighting about, is it?

- Dreams :wizard:

P.S. Question about Wizards. I tried a while ago to sign up but was thrown on a waiting list. Am I doing something wrong? Sounds like ppl are saying they have recently signed up. :confused3

[threeboysmom]

First of all, thanks for all the hugs! VERY much appreciated :goodvibes

On a POSITIVE note... ;)

I had some time this morning so I signed into VFK to check out the new fireworks game. Oh my gosh! I LOVE this game! Brought back so many wonderful memories and made me smile through the whole game. I was never a great fireworks player, and this game shows I still stink :) but I had so much fun being able to experience it again. I for one think they did a great job with the game! Would love to see the "awesome" and "flawless" but I can do without. Great graphics - nothing's better than shooting fireworks over pirate ships out on the high seas! pirate: Nice!!!

Thanks, VFK!

[Dreamytime]

P.S. Question about Wizards. I tried a while ago to sign up but was thrown on a waiting list. Am I doing something wrong? Sounds like ppl are saying they have recently signed up. :confused3

They are letting people in everyday. I think according to their own 'plan'. So just keep looking for an email from them saying you can join. Can't wait to have you. It is truly just an amazing game.

[Disney Dreams]

They are letting people in everyday. I think according to their own 'plan'. So just keep looking for an email from them saying you can join. Can't wait to have you. It is truly just an amazing game.

Thanks. Maybe I'll get my chance soon.

[KrazyPete]

I have to say, I don't get it.

Didn't everyone want someone to create a new VMK if Disney insisted upon closing our beloved Funville?

They are attempting to give exactly that, as close as they can without copying exactly.

::yes::

Personally, I don't think it's a very good copy. Maybe it will be eventually. If there are copyright or patent violations then let Disney and Sulake handle it. I enjoyed playing fireworks this morning. It's not as good as Disney's was but it was one of the few really positive experiences I've had in VFK.

They are responding to market demand by trying to provide a VMK-like virtual world. That's been the agenda from the beginning. Nothing has changed about that today.

ETA: on the subject of originality... am I the only one that thought of Missile Command the first time I played VMK's fireworks game?

[Rygo]

I too try and stay out of this debate, and there are too many posts that I want to address but just can't.

Pink, Thank You for everything you have said! :hug: Since I have joined this board, I find myself loving you more and more every day! Even though you did kick my butt regularly in Pirates, I look forward to more of the same in Space Pirates pirate: (nice to know I am not the only one who still stinks at Fireworks :)) And on a personal note, I hope today things are looking brighter for you, and if they aren't, :hug: keep your chin up, there is always light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how far away it looks :flower3:

Aengus, I respect you more then you can know. But if you haven't played the game since "the Saturday after they opened", I don't really think it fair of you to continue passing judgment, the rest of us are doing enough of that. (by the by, Fin says hello, she's missing you :upsidedow )

As for the rest of you, really at this point, if you really dislike the game so much, then why play? I am playing Wizards and having a (frustrated) great time playing it and meeting new people from the boards. Head over there for your online gaming, it's tons of fun and you might just find yourself dreaming of wisps :rotfl: (I seriously did last night!)

Just my two cents on the whole "copy-cat" version of Fireworks and the Jungle Cruise. My favorite potion game on Wizards looks a lot like a different game I know of, with jewels instead of potions, I don't hear any complaints about that game being a copy.

I think it's time for all of us to put our opinions about the game aside, and let the people who are enjoying it continue to enjoy it and the people who aren't :confused3 , maybe it's time to find another game? Just my opinion :flower3:
I'm not one for censorship, but maybe it's time to stop discussing this game here. It's driven my Happy Disney Family to "arguing" about a game :(

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

I have to say, I don't get it.

Didn't everyone want someone to create a new VMK if Disney insisted upon closing our beloved Funville?
We said we wanted a game to replace VMK and be with our friends, but not an exact copy to spoil our memories

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

Well said and very true. I agree with you.




Could have waited to open the game? they Should have waited until they had a quality product with their own great ideas and not some cheap knock off of VMK. A debate is facts between 2 sides and I see this as a debate-people are not fighting- heck I wanted them to succeed but as their own new innovative game.




Well said :)



:hug: I agree on most of this. In the end I hope the kids are not hurt. Many things this company has done are shady in my book and I simply do not trust them yet. The way they announced this game, rounded up past staff, have registered domain names with vmk in it all show them in a bad light. The fact that the site is still an insecure login baffles me. Why are they "moving" forward when they are not fixing the obvious?

VKF please go down a different road-show us you can give us a wonderful game based on your own ideas and thoughts and not a poor rip off of VMK and show us we can trust you by showing individuality on becoming your own game.

Bug
100% agree, except I 100% agree with the whole of Goofy's post

[kellyjen1863]

The safari game looks very very close to what jungle cruise did. And where do i find the firework's game?

[Rygo]

We said we wanted a game to replace VMK and be with our friends, but not an exact copy to spoil our memories
Just for the record, for some of us, it's not spoiling our memories, it's adding some much needed new ones :hug:

[funfly]

I can't for the life of me figure out why you and all those that nitpick this game to death STILL go on? Either it's "despicable" or it's not....
Every single one of you here complaining about the game ARE SIGNING INTO THIS GAME. If you can't stomach the fact that it's copying VMK or feel "it's ruining my memories" then don't sign in! THAT'S what I'm having a problem with here.

You know what, I get your message LOUD AND CLEAR. You hate the game. Lots of you do. It's almost as if you purposely sign into VFK to find all the negative things and then come running back here to post your disgust.

Yep, does seem that way. (I checked out some other games, they did not make me happy. Therefore, I no longer go to those games, nor do I post complaints about them on their threads.)


I have to say, I don't get it.
Didn't everyone want someone to create a new VMK if Disney insisted upon closing our beloved Funville?

They are attempting to give exactly that, as close as they can without copying exactly.

I own my own business which is 100% a creative venture. I know full well that someone could change a few key features of my product and have a new product of their own. I have everything copyright protected, but it does not take much to alter a product enough to be considered different. It's a risk of creative ventures.

Didn't everyone say they wanted someone to create another VMK? I'm with Pink. If a pirates game comes out that is like that which I miss so dearly and through which I shared so many great memories with friends - I'll be on the dock. Will it be VMK? Nope. Nothing ever will be. Will it be the fun I miss? Hopefully.

Remember, something only has to be changed a certain amount to be legally different. How much is enough? That's a decision courts make every day. It's really not worth fighting about, is it?

- Dreams :wizard:


Just for the record, for some of us, it's not spoiling our memories, it's adding some much needed new ones :hug:

Agreed for all statements above :thumbsup2
For those of you who are not happy in VFK, my wish is for you to be able to go and find a game that makes you happy as well. :hug:

[Sugar]

How about we focus a bit off of a debate, and help me find the Fireworks game? ;)

I followed a friend who happened to be in that room last night, but how can I find it? :)

- Sugar

[SharkMeal]

I have to say, I don't get it.

Didn't everyone want someone to create a new VMK if Disney insisted upon closing our beloved Funville?

They are attempting to give exactly that, as close as they can without copying exactly.

I own my own business which is 100% a creative venture. I know full well that someone could change a few key features of my product and have a new product of their own. I have everything copyright protected, but it does not take much to alter a product enough to be considered different. It's a risk of creative ventures.

Have I found the magic in VFK? No, sadly I have not. However, did I think people would embrace the fireworks game? Oh yeah. I am really surprised. Didn't everyone say they wanted someone to create another VMK? I'm with Pink. If a pirates game comes out that is like that which I miss so dearly and through which I shared so many great memories with friends - I'll be on the dock. Will it be VMK? Nope. Nothing ever will be. Will it be the fun I miss? Hopefully.

Remember, something only has to be changed a certain amount to be legally different. How much is enough? That's a decision courts make every day. It's really not worth fighting about, is it?

- Dreams :wizard:

P.S. Question about Wizards. I tried a while ago to sign up but was thrown on a waiting list. Am I doing something wrong? Sounds like ppl are saying they have recently signed up. :confused3

Well said!

First of all, thanks for all the hugs! VERY much appreciated :goodvibes

On a POSITIVE note... ;)

I had some time this morning so I signed into VFK to check out the new fireworks game. Oh my gosh! I LOVE this game! Brought back so many wonderful memories and made me smile through the whole game. I was never a great fireworks player, and this game shows I still stink :) but I had so much fun being able to experience it again. I for one think they did a great job with the game! Would love to see the "awesome" and "flawless" but I can do without. Great graphics - nothing's better than shooting fireworks over pirate ships out on the high seas! pirate: Nice!!!

Thanks, VFK!

Well said!

::yes::

Personally, I don't think it's a very good copy. Maybe it will be eventually. If there are copyright or patent violations then let Disney and Sulake handle it. I enjoyed playing fireworks this morning. It's not as good as Disney's was but it was one of the few really positive experiences I've had in VFK.

They are responding to market demand by trying to provide a VMK-like virtual world. That's been the agenda from the beginning. Nothing has changed about that today.

ETA: on the subject of originality... am I the only one that thought of Missile Command the first time I played VMK's fireworks game?

Well said!

I too try and stay out of this debate, and there are too many posts that I want to address but just can't.

Pink, Thank You for everything you have said! :hug: Since I have joined this board, I find myself loving you more and more every day! Even though you did kick my butt regularly in Pirates, I look forward to more of the same in Space Pirates pirate: (nice to know I am not the only one who still stinks at Fireworks :)) And on a personal note, I hope today things are looking brighter for you, and if they aren't, :hug: keep your chin up, there is always light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how far away it looks :flower3:

Aengus, I respect you more then you can know. But if you haven't played the game since "the Saturday after they opened", I don't really think it fair of you to continue passing judgment, the rest of us are doing enough of that. (by the by, Fin says hello, she's missing you :upsidedow )

As for the rest of you, really at this point, if you really dislike the game so much, then why play? I am playing Wizards and having a (frustrated) great time playing it and meeting new people from the boards. Head over there for your online gaming, it's tons of fun and you might just find yourself dreaming of wisps :rotfl: (I seriously did last night!)

Just my two cents on the whole "copy-cat" version of Fireworks and the Jungle Cruise. My favorite potion game on Wizards looks a lot like a different game I know of, with jewels instead of potions, I don't hear any complaints about that game being a copy.

I think it's time for all of us to put our opinions about the game aside, and let the people who are enjoying it continue to enjoy it and the people who aren't :confused3 , maybe it's time to find another game? Just my opinion :flower3:
I'm not one for censorship, but maybe it's time to stop discussing this game here. It's driven my Happy Disney Family to "arguing" about a game :(

Must I say it again @_@ lol.

I just played it a few times and it brought back so many memories of
fireworks and I think it really does look amazing. It's not a cheap imitation.
To those calling it a cheap imitation have you played it yet? And sure it's
not perfect yet but that's why we're in beta - err, I mean gamma testing. :P
They will add later as soon as they get the main problems fixed.

They've also handled the family founder thing pretty well. Well, except
maybe for the only 2 day sign up thing. I don't think
they're all that shady anymore. But I'm not trusting them completely yet ;)

[funfly]

How about we focus a bit off of a debate, and help me find the Fireworks game? ;)

I followed a friend who happened to be in that room last night, but how can I find it? :)

- Sugar

Sugar!
Go to Victorian House, follow sidewalk into top left shade of the tree...

[Cardinal]

May I pull out a few loosely related Mark Twain quotes from the inner reaches of my brain?

In the matter of slavish imitation, man is the monkey's superior all the time. The average man is destitute of independence of opinion. He is not interested in contriving a opinion of his own, by study and reflection, but is only anxious to find out what his neighbor's opinion is and slavishly adopt it.

It is at our mother's knee that we acquire our noblest and truest and highest ideals, but there is seldom any money in them.

[Sugar]

Sugar!
Go to Victorian House, follow sidewalk into top left shade of the tree...

Thanks! (By the way, I stocked you last night to find it :goodvibes )

- Sugar

[Rygo]

How about we focus a bit off of a debate, and help me find the Fireworks game? ;)

I followed a friend who happened to be in that room last night, but how can I find it? :)

- Sugar

Go to the Victorian House and then follow the street up to the side of the tree. Should take you right there.

(Edit: Guess I should read all the posts first :rolleyes1 )

Cardinal, thanks for the very fitting quote :hug:

[funfly]

How about we focus a bit off of a debate, and help me find the Fireworks game? ;)

I followed a friend who happened to be in that room last night, but how can I find it? :)

- Sugar

Thanks! (By the way, I stocked you last night to find it :goodvibes )

- Sugar

OMG Gosh!! :scared1: You stalker, first at crossroads other night, then fireworks last night. -logging off to find Sugar Stalk-:hug:

[KingQuackATac]

I like playing VFK (bugs and all) better than not having a VMKish on-line option.

I was very sad and angry when VMK announced it's closing and it was a very difficult month to endure, watching the closing of our favorite game.

But I will say that the idea of VFK kept up my spirits up during that time.

I did not want VFK to be a continuation of my VMK life. So I call it a new experience with similarities. It's like moving to a new town or city. What's the first thing you do? Look for some things that are comforting or familiar. Like a favorite place to eat (or something similar). Like a park/walking trail. Like a friendly neighbor or group of people with similarities to you. Like a movie theater. Like a swimming pool. Etc, etc.

I wasn't really into finding a completely "foreign" on-line game. I wanted something similar to VMK. So far, and I expect even more so in the future, VFK is the place that has done this for my family.

Regarding the Fireworks game: I never was good at Fireworks in VMK (only played remixed) but I don't mind VFK's version at all. It's rather relaxing.

I really can't wait for Space Pirates though. pirate:

[funfly]

Absolutely King! I enjoy the game as well, bugs and all. Having fun in fireworks (even though lag and disconnect pops up :lmao: ) and find it relaxing in both the fireworks and bird game :)

[beejer]

Finally did it!!! I played all 60 levels of the Audubon game and earned a score of 28,665! It took me about 80 minutes because I developed lag but I was driven to get through one whole game. Now I will not mind losing at lower levels because I think I can earn the same amount of credits with several games rather than one long session. A week ago I could not imagine distinquishing warblers and finches but it is all beginning to make some new crevices in my brain.

As for the fireworks game, I hope to learn the sequence of colors/shapes so I can react faster. Although I will probably tire of the music soon, I do enjoy turning up the volume on the last level and exploding fireworks as my part in the Overture. LOL

:cheer2::cheer2: :cheer2:

[Bee2u]

Finally did it!!! I played all 60 levels of the Audubon game and earned a score of 28,665! It took me about 80 minutes because I developed lag but I was driven to get through one whole game. Now I will not mind losing at lower levels because I think I can earn the same amount of credits with several games rather than one long session. A week ago I could not imagine distinquishing warblers and finches but it is all beginning to make some new crevices in my brain.

As for the fireworks game, I hope to learn the sequence of colors/shapes so I can react faster. Although I will probably tire of the music soon, I do enjoy turning up the volume on the last level and exploding fireworks as my part in the Overture. LOL

:cheer2::cheer2: :cheer2:

W00T!!! Fantastic job on the Audubon game! :yay:

[aengus]

I might not log in but I read these posts everyday. I defintely no more than a casual player.

there is no secure login, and accepting credit card payments to boot

They do not follow COPPA federal regulations

they are encouraging the exchange of account information between players

they are trampling on the intelectual property of Disney (copyright)

Did I miss anything?

[beejer]

Thank you! I am surprisedmyself because my scores have always been inconsistent. I noticed that I am not running out of gas, even when the gas is occasionally missing on screens. I think that in itself is a big help. Right now I am using the pictures for clues: like one Canadian title is looking downward and I tell myelf that Canada has to look downward to see the US LOL BUt I have started to discern the woodpecker varieties because I was forced to choose between two woodpeckers, etc. Amazing there are red bellied, red shafted, ivory billed, pileated, hairy, etc. I can't take a walk outside that I am not obsessed looking at birds. ROFL


:cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

I might not log in but I read these posts everyday. I defintely no more than a casual player.

there is no secure login, and accepting credit card payments to boot

They do not follow COPPA federal regulations

they are encouraging the exchange of account information between players

they are trampling on the intelectual property of Disney (copyright)

Did I miss anything?
They are tampering with our magical memories

[vmkfan13]

I might not log in but I read these posts everyday. I defintely no more than a casual player.

there is no secure login, and accepting credit card payments to boot

They do not follow COPPA federal regulations

they are encouraging the exchange of account information between players

they are trampling on the intelectual property of Disney (copyright)

Did I miss anything?

They have ugly graphics! I know not to judge a book by it's cover but there's nothing this site has to cover..

[KingQuackATac]

I don't mind the graphics. The fireworks game is very nice looking. I could use some more distinct facial features like VMK had, but all together - it's nice, even beautiful in some parts. :)

[vmkfan13]

I don't mind the graphics. The fireworks game is very nice looking. I could use some more distinct facial features like VMK had, but all together - it's nice, even beautiful in some parts. :)

I think some rooms are nice, but the characters could get an update.

[Belle1997]

I might not log in but I read these posts everyday. I defintely no more than a casual player.

there is no secure login, and accepting credit card payments to boot

They do not follow COPPA federal regulations

they are encouraging the exchange of account information between players

they are trampling on the intelectual property of Disney (copyright)

Did I miss anything?


Nope but You put this is the middle of the positives of someone doing great at birds, another enjoying the game. A family that plays this game together and yes we are all aware of these issue. Will VFK survive do not know. Are these issues important yes they are!!!! But many of us are having fun while it is still here.

It was just so nice to come over here and read someones excitement of meeting a personal goal. Those issues do not change either posts personal enjoyment for now.

Though in the end it may be what closes the game. But I think we all know the issues by now.

[SorcererDonald16]

I was finally able to create a character late July 5th after having been on the waiting list. At this point, I don't really know what to say about it since I haven't kept up with this thread and can't actually play it normally yet. Like others here, I'm permanently stuck in single user mode it seems; sent a message, but haven't heard anything back yet. I can't access the fireworks game; I walk to the correct place and I just stop (I'm guessing this is due to me being in single user mode).

Is the fireworks game like the original VMK version or more closer to the newer one?

[aengus]

I disagree those are MAJOR problems belle.

[Belle1997]

and yes we are all aware of these issue. Will VFK survive do not know. Are these issues important yes they are!!!! But many of us are having fun while it is still here.

Though in the end it may be what closes the game. But I think we all know the issues by now.

Ah what point did I not get I did say they are important, what else would you like me to say. I am acknowledging the issue that could be the result of this game closing.

What those major issues do not do is change today and the fun I am having with my friends. We can not change the pass we can forsee the future. What we can do is enjoy today.

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

Especially the COPPA

Couldn't someone sue them for not protecting their children correctly?

[aengus]

Ah what point did I not get I did say they are important, what else would you like me to say. I am acknowledging the issue that could be the result of this game closing.

What those major issues do not do is change today and the fun I am having with my friends. We can not change the pass we can forsee the future. What we can do is enjoy today.

:hug: I hope you understand its important to bring them back up as new people from our forums read this everyday and I hope they read these things before even thinking about joining the game.

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

Didn't you say that you were going to close this thread if the mods/admins felt that there were too many issues with this game?

[threeboysmom]

I might not log in but I read these posts everyday. I defintely no more than a casual player.

there is no secure login, and accepting credit card payments to boot

They do not follow COPPA federal regulations

they are encouraging the exchange of account information between players

they are trampling on the intelectual property of Disney (copyright)

Did I miss anything?

Aengus....

I understand your concerns, I really do. BUT what do you really think you're going to accomplish (and the others on this thread) by posting over and over your distaste and outrage at this game (sometimes in a very sarcastic manner, I might add).

We all KNOW they have an unsecure log-in... we all know how you feel about them "copying" VMK. However, posting about it in this thread will do no good - all it does is harm this community.

To think that you're protecting the "children" by blasting VFK in this thread is ludicrous. Sounds noble, but it's NOT practical. If you have that big of a concern for the safety of children, take it up in a letter.. not only with VFK but the hundreds and thousands of other online games and forums.

Not one of you is going to "save the world" by your posts. So put the Superman capes away.

Just let those of us that choose to enjoy this game with all its bugs and flaws enjoy it without having to deal with all the rudeness and sarcasm and hatred on this thread.

There are far more "noble causes" in the real world that you could be putting your energy towards. :)

[beejer]

Is there any chance we could have two threads for vfk; one to debate the issues and one to discuss playing the game, trading, meeting friends and making new ones? I think aengus decided against this though. I know all the topics I start get lost in the debates. I admit I spend less time here because of the doom and gloom. Of course people have a right to express their opinions but it would be nice to have a choice where we can read.



:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

[disvaclub92]

Is the fireworks game like the original VMK version or more closer to the newer one?

From what others have stated, it is more like the original one.

[Belle1997]

:hug: I hope you understand its important to bring them back up as new people from our forums read this everyday and I hope they read these things before even thinking about joining the game.

Yup I do!! But maybe you could enjoy people fun. With a special note to new dis readers.

Please note we are aware of these very major issues
1.
2.
3.
4
Etc


so before thinking of joining this game these are just some of the on going issues that still have not been addressed.

Then you are not putting a damper on others joy and also making sure any new readers are aware of these issues.

[disvaclub92]

Is there any chance we could have two threads for vfk; one to debate the issues and one to discuss playing the game, trading, meeting friends and making new ones? I think aengus decided against this though. I know all the topics I start get lost in the debates. I admit I spend less time here because of the doom and gloom. Of course people have a right to express their opinions but it would be nice to have a choice where we can read.
:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

Please note that the Aengus did not make that decision. If you recall, the VFK discussion thread was closed because of DIS Board rule violations. We consulted with the Webmasters to open this thread once the game became live and a decision was made by the Webmasters as stated in the beginning of this thread to keep it to one thread while the game was being evaluated.

[beejer]

Here you may discuss the new game virtual family kingdom

I would like to thank you all for respecting me while the game was being evaluated.

For now please keep it in this thread. We still have much to learn about this game and its direction.

Thanks again for your understanding.


I just remember seeing this on the first post by aengus and did not know that history. Just want to have a pleasant experience that is all I am saying. I slay dragons every day at work and not need to do it with my leisure time too.


:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

Aengus....

I understand your concerns, I really do. BUT what do you really think you're going to accomplish (and the others on this thread) by posting over and over your distaste and outrage at this game (sometimes in a very sarcastic manner, I might add).

We all KNOW they have an unsecure log-in... we all know how you feel about them "copying" VMK. However, posting about it in this thread will do no good - all it does is harm this community.

To think that you're protecting the "children" by blasting VFK in this thread is ludicrous. Sounds noble, but it's NOT practical. If you have that big of a concern for the safety of children, take it up in a letter.. not only with VFK but the hundreds and thousands of other online games and forums.

Not one of you is going to "save the world" by your posts. So put the Superman capes away.

Just let those of us that choose to enjoy this game with all its bugs and flaws enjoy it without having to deal with all the rudeness and sarcasm and hatred on this thread.

There are far more "noble causes" in the real world that you could be putting your energy towards. :)

He's no out to save the world, just the VMK refugees

[Dreamytime]

But the thing is, we are allowed our opinion too. Good or bad the words of another is just as appreciated and needed as mine own.

Today I have felt like my voice is not wanted on Dis. And isn't that exactly what you are trying to say is missing? The family feeling? Today I haven't felt like family, or maybe like the new step-mom (child) whose words do not matter.

In life we have to appreciate and understand the opinions of another. We don't have to agree, but we have to be family.

[aengus]

But the thing is, we are allowed our opinion too. Good or bad the words of another is just as appreciated and needed as mine own.

Today I have felt like my voice is not wanted on Dis. And isn't that exactly what you are trying to say is missing? The family feeling? Today I haven't felt like family, or maybe like the new step-mom (child) whose words do not matter.

In life we have to appreciate and understand the opinions of another. We don't have to agree, but we have to be family.


I hope it was not me who made you feel this way, in all the posts aimed at me I may have missed something :rotfl:

[Mnementh]

To all of you who want to see this thread closed, it's almost reached its 250 page limit anyway. :confused3

[Dreamytime]

I hope it was not me who made you feel this way, in all the posts aimed at me I may have missed something :rotfl:

Hehe! Nope, the ones aimed at you (those flaming darts) were aimed pretty true. Maybe it is why they like the fireworks game so much!

But seriously....this is a discussion board. That means discussion (good or bad). But everyone (and I mean EVERYONE'S) opinion counts. To be told to not post with complaints, to have segregated threads, and/or that we only go onto the game to find out what is wrong and gripe about it, that is just wrong.

If that is what this board is about, being totally in agreement with one persons opinion and keeping all bad opinions out of discussion, then this isn't a board it is utopia.

[beejer]

Go Steelers!!!

I do not want thread closed; just a place where I can read about the game and the people playing it in a supportive, "let's have fun" atmosphere. Most comments are made with sarcastic smilies that discourage me from posting.


:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

Go Steelers!!!

I do not want thread closed; just a place where I can read about the game and the people playing it in a supportive, "let's have fun" atmosphere. Most comments are made with sarcastic smilies that discourage me from posting.


:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

Thank you! Some support! (Brat doesn't like the Steelers, and he hates Donna, and Dona is old what's her name...)

So much talk about the Steelers today! I saw it over on the games forum today too

[Belle1997]

Hehe! Nope, the ones aimed at you (those flaming darts) were aimed pretty true. Maybe it is why they like the fireworks game so much!

But seriously....this is a discussion board. That means discussion (good or bad). But everyone (and I mean EVERYONE'S) opinion counts. To be told to not post with complaints, to have segregated threads, and/or that we only go onto the game to find out what is wrong and gripe about it, that is just wrong.

If that is what this board is about, being totally in agreement with one persons opinion and keeping all bad opinions out of discussion, then this isn't a board it is utopia.

Welcome to our family :) Somedays the pro VMKers feel left out that no one cares how much fun they are having. The other days the people who have many concerns seem to control the board.

There is the issue. If we as humans could all see eye to eye boy this world would be a boring place. But it sure would be peaceful.

The issue really is that the family feeling of encouragement excitement that we felt in VMK can not be on this thread. For the board is split. Tips and strategies for VFK get lost in the this game as major issues. And never the too share meet.

I do understand Webmasters stance on only one thread. This board is huge. They do not want any new dis members or family joining a game that has yet to prove itself. And as Anegus lets us no over and over and over again has major issues that he sees ( as do others)

So many go to other place to get that but it does leave a big whole on both sides.

I think the closing of VMK not only crushed so many fond memories but also created a big whole for many on the once VMK dis thread.

I think we are all morning the loss the the great community we had in VMK. Maybe some day we can get it back. But right now there is no place we all feel comfortable going to. Our close family has moved away to different parts of the big wide web. Just not the same and sadly missed.

Many close friends have become distant because they do not see eye to eye. It is just heart breaking.

Disney did more than just close a game and it is something I do not think they will ever understand :(

[TLinden16]

But the thing is, we are allowed our opinion too. Good or bad the words of another is just as appreciated and needed as mine own.

Today I have felt like my voice is not wanted on Dis. And isn't that exactly what you are trying to say is missing? The family feeling? Today I haven't felt like family, or maybe like the new step-mom (child) whose words do not matter.

In life we have to appreciate and understand the opinions of another. We don't have to agree, but we have to be family.

Dreamytime, I'm not a mod here on the DIS Gaming forums, but I am a long time DIS mod (currently on the theme parks board), and I want to tell you this: Please don't think your voice isn't wanted on the DIS. We want to hear what you have to say :) All voices are welcome here (as long as they follow DIS guidelines).

Obviously, a lot of us have differing opinions on VFK, and have our reasons for liking or disliking VFK. We aren't going to agree on everything here, and that's fine, but we have to be respectful of our fellow posters.

Bottom line is, we all found these forums in the past few years because of our love for Disney and/or VMK. These forums have been a great place for all of us to share stories about are interest in VMK, build friendships, and help one another.

Believe me, I can understand why VFK supporters are so vocal about it. I can understand why you are looking for something to fill the void left when VMK was closed. If VFK is the right fit for you, thats cool.

I would hope that the VFK supporters can understand the position of many of us have taken against VFK. There are obviously a lot of issues with the game, and things that have raise big red flags for us. We just want to remind people to be aware of some of these things, and protect themselves.

Ultimately, my main concern here is I don't want to see people put all their faith and trust into VFK, only to have their hearts broken when and if VFK is closed (and I believe that Disney will eventually shut it down because of the infringement against their intellectual property--it just takes time for that to happen).

[Bee2u]

The thing that confuses and concerns me about all this 'debate', both here and in VFK itself, is that VFK seems to be becoming the sacred cow that no one is supposed to touch or say anything bad about. Haven't we always had complaints and negative comments here, about VMK (which we all loved, but also knew wasn't perfect) POTC, Toontown, SmallWorlds, or anything else? If we all have to have the same opinion about things, what's the point in having any discussions at all? Are we all to turn into Stepford wives and stop having thoughts of our own?

VFK, like everything else in life, is neither perfect nor completely evil - people should be able to point out and discuss any aspect of the game, the good and bad, the highs and lows. Having concerns about something is not the same thing as hatred.

I feel that I benefit from reading everyone's posts, even if I strongly disagree with them, because in formulating a reply (which I usually don't post, I tend to just think about) I sometimes solidify my reasons for thinking the way I do, and sometimes realize that I do need to look at things differently. Either way, I'm better off than I was before.

[LoriR]

ALL opinions are welcome and encouraged.

As long as no one is attacking another poster, and is following DIS guidelines, we invite both sides of an issue to state their thoughts.

I seem to remember quite a bit of "debate" on many VMK topics. Discussion is always good, just remember that at times we must all agree to disagree. ;)

Lori

[funfly]

:hug: I hope you understand its important to bring them back up as new people from our forums read this everyday and I hope they read these things before even thinking about joining the game.
I understand what you are saying with this and reason(s) why. I would like to know something though. Do you or someone else continually post of safety issues for children on all the other threads for Sociotown, or Smallworlds, and/or any other ones where there is unfiltered/unmoderated chat?

A friend in Sociotown told me that anything can be said/asked there. I know that's true in Smallworlds. Isn't this a safety issue with children as well since they can be asked what their real name is, where they live, how old they are, etc? I know this for fact in Smallworlds-while I was there last week I saw someone asking those questions; and to top it off two nghts ago a random stranger asked a girlfriend and me if we wanted to have sex with him :eek:

I am not trying to be a you-know-what about this; just asking here because I don't feel like checking all other game threads and all those Smallworld threads.

Today I have felt like my voice is not wanted on Dis. Today I haven't felt like family, or maybe like the new step-mom (child) whose words do not matter. In life we have to appreciate and understand the opinions of another. We don't have to agree, but we have to be family.
I hope it was not me who made you feel this way, in all the posts aimed at me I may have missed something :rotfl: Hugs to you both :hug:

[COLOR="Blue"]Go Steelers!!!
I do not want thread closed; just a place where I can read about the game and the people playing it in a supportive, "let's have fun" atmosphere. Most comments are made with sarcastic smilies that discourage me from posting.
I don't mind seeing both sides to things but I agree with your last sentence-sigh- yep

[beejer]

Only problem is I have to say GO Panthers!!! too. I notice u are a Nitany Lions Fan.

I started participating on Dis with WDW trip planning and everyone was so helpful. I just expected that mood to permeate the board. I am open to other viewpoints and often learn from them but all the talk about copyrights, lawsuits, identity theft, child luring, etc. bothers me. I wonder how kids are managing these "discussions"? I have to think they are very confused. Any kids out there?


:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

Only problem is I have to say GO Panthers!!! too. I notice u are a Nitany Lions Fan.

I started participating on Dis with WDW trip planning and everyone was so helpful. I just expected that mood to permeate the board. I am open to other viewpoints and often learn from them but all the talk about copyrights, lawsuits, identity theft, child luring, etc. bothers me. I wonder how kids are managing these "discussions"? I have to think they are very confused. Any kids out there?


:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

I despise stinky pitt fans (not calling you stinky, calling pitt football stinky)http://theelitedis.5.forumer.com/html/emoticons/theelitedis/teeth.gif

Oh yeah, my sister's boyfriend is a Pitt football player (not a starter)

[Bee2u]

I understand what you are saying with this and reason(s) why. I would like to know something though. Do you or someone else continually post of safety issues for children on all the other threads for Sociotown, or Smallworlds, and/or any other ones where there is unfiltered/unmoderated chat?

I don't know about the Sociotown threads, but safety issues frequently came up in the SmallWorlds threads, and several times it has been stated that the game is definitely not for kids. I guess the major difference is that the SmallWorlds staff is unusually responsive to our concerns and suggestions, and take steps to fix some of the problem areas, so our discussions can move on to something else.

[disvaclub92]

I understand what you are saying with this and reason(s) why. I would like to know something though. Do you or someone else continually post of safety issues for children on all the other threads for Sociotown, or Smallworlds, and/or any other ones where there is unfiltered/unmoderated chat?


I would like to point out yes, we have advised on the boards that these are PG 13 games. We do our best with the help of our community and by ourselves to identify issues when they surface. Both Smallworlds and Sociotown have listened to individuals in our community and have taken our feedback.

Beejer - Go Eagles!! hehe - Oh I am a dragon slayer too, but must not do a good job because they tend to resurface overnight and return to work the next morning.

I guess what gets me is that what is pointed out are factual deficiencies and people don't want to hear it. We share it here because we are a board that has always shared information both negative and/or positive. As you know, some issues we addressed early on in the game all of a sudden were taken care of. Having the use of the report feature seem to happen almost overnight when it was pointed out. So many other concerns we have posted here are clearly ignored because they cost money to fix.

I for one always wrote to VMK to offer constructive criticism to something, especially soon before I posted it here. Gosh, wonder how VMK_Shorty is doing, bet I am missed.

Based on what I heard, messages are not responded to timely, even just a confirm that receive it would be nice. If I knew that my messages would be read by VFK, darn right I would be sending it there. Sure I could call, but I spend most of my day on the phone, not something I want to do at night.

[aengus]

I understand what you are saying with this and reason(s) why. I would like to know something though. Do you or someone else continually post of safety issues for children on all the other threads for Sociotown, or Smallworlds, and/or any other ones where there is unfiltered/unmoderated chat?

A friend in Sociotown told me that anything can be said/asked there. I know that's true in Smallworlds. Isn't this a safety issue with children as well since they can be asked what their real name is, where they live, how old they are, etc? I know this for fact in Smallworlds-while I was there last week I saw someone asking those questions; and to top it off two nghts ago a random stranger asked a girlfriend and me if we wanted to have sex with him :eek:

I am not trying to be a you-know-what about this; just asking here because I don't feel like checking all other game threads and all those Smallworld threads.


Hugs to you both :hug:

-sigh- yep

no i dont the other games all have the following characteristics

the other games meet COPPA requirements (HUGE WITH ME! childrens online protection and privacy act)

secure logins in the event money is exchanged.

they also arent blatently pouncing on the copyright of a disney product, deceased or not. Remember everyone, one thing that is also being overlooked. This is a Disney fansite, we were disney fans first.

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

Beejer - Go Eagles!! hehe - Oh I am a dragon slayer too, but must not do a good job because they tend to resurface overnight and return to work the next morning.

I find this post offensive :snooty:

[funfly]

Aengus, thanks for your answers :)

[aengus]

Aengus, thanks for your answers :)

despite our disagreements on this topic funfly, I would like you to know, we didnt have a whole bunch of memories on vmk together. when we did come across eachother, they were memorable, and we were most likely helping someone out that needed our help.

thats how I remember your avatar, helping people.

[TLinden16]

All this talk about vfk has me wondering something.

Are all of the old VMK staff who joined on as VFK still active in the game? When was the last time you saw the old VMK staff who are now VFK staff on VFK?

[aliceblue]

I might not log in but I read these posts everyday. I defintely no more than a casual player.

there is no secure login, and accepting credit card payments to boot

They do not follow COPPA federal regulations

they are encouraging the exchange of account information between players

they are trampling on the intelectual property of Disney (copyright)

Did I miss anything?:hug: I hope you understand its important to bring them back up as new people from our forums read this everyday and I hope they read these things before even thinking about joining the game.I hope you know how many of us are grateful for this, Aengus.Aengus....

I understand your concerns, I really do. BUT what do you really think you're going to accomplish (and the others on this thread) by posting over and over your distaste and outrage at this game (sometimes in a very sarcastic manner, I might add).

We all KNOW they have an unsecure log-in... we all know how you feel about them "copying" VMK. However, posting about it in this thread will do no good - all it does is harm this community.

To think that you're protecting the "children" by blasting VFK in this thread is ludicrous. Sounds noble, but it's NOT practical. If you have that big of a concern for the safety of children, take it up in a letter.. not only with VFK but the hundreds and thousands of other online games and forums.

Not one of you is going to "save the world" by your posts. So put the Superman capes away.

Just let those of us that choose to enjoy this game with all its bugs and flaws enjoy it without having to deal with all the rudeness and sarcasm and hatred on this thread.

There are far more "noble causes" in the real world that you could be putting your energy towards. :)With the utmost respect, I must disagree with the idea that these efforts are being wasted. On the contrary, Aengus and the other moderators are doing their job by advising Dis members of some serious problems they see with this game. I for one am grateful for the caution that is being exercised in the interest of Dis members young and old.

A little perspective here: Of the major boards that were formerly devoted to VMK, this is the only one to my knowledge that is even allowing VFK to be discussed. I'm glad there is somewhere for people to get a "heads up" on possible risks, and at the same time be free to discuss what they like or don't like about the game. Mixed discussion is a whole lot better than no discussion at all.Obviously, a lot of us have differing opinions on VFK, and have our reasons for liking or disliking VFK. We aren't going to agree on everything here, and that's fine, but we have to be respectful of our fellow posters.

Bottom line is, we all found these forums in the past few years because of our love for Disney and/or VMK. These forums have been a great place for all of us to share stories about are interest in VMK, build friendships, and help one another.

Believe me, I can understand why VFK supporters are so vocal about it. I can understand why you are looking for something to fill the void left when VMK was closed. If VFK is the right fit for you, thats cool.

I would hope that the VFK supporters can understand the position of many of us have taken against VFK. There are obviously a lot of issues with the game, and things that have raise big red flags for us. We just want to remind people to be aware of some of these things, and protect themselves.

Ultimately, my main concern here is I don't want to see people put all their faith and trust into VFK, only to have their hearts broken when and if VFK is closed (and I believe that Disney will eventually shut it down because of the infringement against their intellectual property--it just takes time for that to happen).This is beautifully put; thank you so much.

[funfly]

despite our disagreements on this topic funfly, I would like you to know, we didnt have a whole bunch of memories on vmk together. when we did come across eachother, they were memorable, and we were most likely helping someone out that needed our help.

thats how I remember your avatar, helping people.
I understand your concerns, I really do. (As I said before I wasn't trying to be a pain, just was curious.) And I appreciate your looking out for us all as always, it is very much appreciated :hug: I have always considered your opinion important in my final decision(s) in any of these games; and when asked for more info you've replied promptly. :) (Thanks Aengus for all you do)
True while we didn't have bunch of memories on vmk together; yes they were usually helping people. Thank you for your kind words. No matter where or how many places I will end up, I'll help people. I'm sure you will too, I remember that about you as well.

Ok, this was probably all off topic really...so back to VFK talk

[JulyGirl]

Well, I have to say that I am actually enjoying the fireworks game.Yes, it sure has a lot in common with VMK's version, but I am grateful for that. When I first played this game today, my heart felt a little bit fuller. I miss those fireworks dearly. I couldn't stay up for the final hours of VMk's closing, but my final moments in the game were spent playing fireworks with my friends. So I say, "Thanks, VFK !", for bringing a little bit of magic back.

Having said that, so far the fireworks game is the only thing about VFK that I enjoy. Oh, and I also enjoy finding some of my old friends again.:goodvibes

[Bugdozer]

This is a Disney fansite, we were disney fans first.

:hug: This is so so true. I have been approached several times in the game and asked if I was the Bugdozer that wrote that big letter to Disney. I reply yes and then I am asked how could i defend Disney after what they did to us and they were shocked I would have anything good to say about Disney.

Yes I wrote many letters but never in any of them did I say I hated Disney or that I am done with them. Disney was part of our lives before VMK and is part of our lives after VMK. Disney made the life of a boy better and going to the park allows this mom and her son the much needed time to spend together. Disney is part of our past a huge part of the present and without doubt a major part of our future. Ink has all ready mapped out his life and careerer and it includes Disney-with his determination I have no doubt he will accomplish all he wants to.

I am often amazed how much so many people have forgotten what VMK meant to them. They have forgotten the fun, friends and amazing times and have turned bitter. This makes me sad. I hope someday that everyone will find in their hearts again the love they had for VMK and for Disney-after all without Disney there would have been no VMK and our lives would not be richer for having had a wonderful game and community to be part of.

Thank you Aengus for reminding us that we are truly Disney fans first :)

Bug

[Belle1997]

All this talk about vfk has me wondering something.

Are all of the old VMK staff who joined on as VFK still active in the game? When was the last time you saw the old VMK staff who are now VFK staff on VFK?


To my knowledge they are still there. But I do not see all of them but fin, harmony lion the ones I saw when the game first opened are still there.

The question I have why are the developers not following COPPA federal regulations. Is this difficult to do. Does it cost alot. That is one thing I do not under as it is the law right. So what actually happens so we know if it ever gets fixed. Does this law apply for beta games or just public games. Is that when they send an email to parents saying their child joined this game site.

Oh and what stops a child from putting in another one of their emails and not the parents.


As for sharing account information the only thing the founder head of family gets is the title name which they know and password.

The account information is what is confusing. Because you could only sign up with a credit card. Thus if a child signed up a parent would have to have been there to fill out the account info. So for a child to be a founder they would have had to have parental consent.

The trampling on intellectual property. I have no idea of even where to start looking for the legal definition. And if I did find it probably would be in some lawyers legal foreign language.

Where is the line. How many types of Bewjewelled have we all played.

So have no idea if they have cross the legal line or just the ethical line.

As for secure login do not get that either. What do they need to do to make is secure. How would we know. Is there computer programs that find you and take your password.

I guess it is nice to spout off issues and maybe it was discussed maybe 100 thread ago.

So just as you see the need to point out the major flaws maybe some explaination behind it would help too. every so often :)

[vmkfan13]

One thing I don't understand is how the game switched to Gamma? It didn't seem to change at all?

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

edit

[aengus]

The question I have why are the developers not following COPPA federal regulations. Is this difficult to do. Does it cost alot. That is one thing I do not under as it is the law right. So what actually happens so we know if it ever gets fixed. Does this law apply for beta games or just public games. Is that when they send an email to parents saying their child joined this game site.

yes its that simple, they are supposed to notify the parents.



Oh and what stops a child from putting in another one of their emails and not the parents.



nothing, but it doesnt mean they shouldnt adhere to the federal regulation


As for sharing account information the only thing the founder head of family gets is the title name which they know and password.



yes, but people are already saying PLZ PLZ let me be in your family so i can have a hat!! PLZ, i saw it on other boards already, and then they give that person the information... and... you know what can happen to a naive kid at that point.


The account information is what is confusing. Because you could only sign up with a credit card. Thus if a child signed up a parent would have to have been there to fill out the account info. So for a child to be a founder they would have had to have parental consent.


to be a founder maybe. but to sign up no. Lets face it this is a tough one to tackle because the parents here are typically the better parents we know that from the past. All parents aren't.



The trampling on intellectual property. I have no idea of even where to start looking for the legal definition. And if I did find it probably would be in some lawyers legal foreign language.

Where is the line. How many types of Bewjewelled have we all played.

So have no idea if they have cross the legal line or just the ethical line.



I would agree, its my opinion they crossed it with fireworks, but i am no lawyer either, its my opinion. The game looks pretty much the same minus a few backgrounds that even make people think of vmk. but opinon none the less.


As for secure login do not get that either. What do they need to do to make is secure. How would we know. Is there computer programs that find you and take your password.

I guess it is nice to spout off issues and maybe it was discussed maybe 100 thread ago.

So just as you see the need to point out the major flaws maybe some explaination behind it would help too. every so often :)



this one puzzles me, its so easy to support https I dont know why they dont just do it. its just a service. I have to assume the programming in shockwave didnt take it into consideration and maybe that makes it a problem? I dont know have an answer honestly. a normal website would just enable https (secure http). its not a big cost or anything so I just dont know.

[TLinden16]

Here is some basic info on intellectual property with links to examples of each:

A patent is used for inventions of an object, system, or method of doing something. The chemical formula and process of making every medication you have in your medicine cabinet has been patented. The recipie for Coke has been patented.

An example of a patent would be the Fast Pass System. You can see the actual text of the patent for the fast pass system here:

http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO %2Fsearch-adv.htm&r=64&f=G&l=50&d=PTXT&s2=disney.ASNM.&co1=A ND&p=2&OS=AN/disney&RS=AN/disney

You can also have design patents. A design patent would be for something like the grill or the body of a car, or the outer casing of medical device like a diabetes blood test machine.

A trademark is a brand name, slogan, character name, or logo, etc. McDonald's. Disney. Goofy. Advil. All trademarked.

An example of a trademark would be for Disney would be the word FASTPASS. You can find that trademark here:

http://tess2.uspto.gov/bin/showfield...e=6cbg8s.10.17

Anoher example would be this one, which is a trademark of the logo of my favorite place on Disney property, Jellyrolls:

http://tess2.uspto.gov/bin/showfield...te=6cbg8s.11.5

A copyright is for an original song, movie script, poem, novel, story, etc.

Here is a link to the copyright info for the song "Part of Your World" from "The Little Mermaid"

http://cocatalog.loc.gov/cgi-bin/Pwe...07223752&SID=7

Patenting something like VMK cost Disney thousands of dollars in fees to the U.S. Patent Office (and thousands more in attorney fees), and it's a lengthy process that can take several years to complete. I don't know all there is to know about the patent process, but Disney is the owner of that patent, and unless they sell it to another entity, no one else can profit from that patent for many years (I want to say it's like seven years or something like that).
This is why you only see brand names of medicines when they first come out--the companies that develop them are the only ones who can make money off of them for the first several years, and then the generic brands can come out.

If a company or individual copies and/or profits off the product or process in a process that has been patented, that is called infringement. The owner of the patent has the right to challenge anyone who infringes upon their patent. They can start with having an attorney to send a letter to get them to stop using the product or process, and if that doesn't work, they can file a suit in a court and go to trial.

I have no doubt in my mind that Disney knows about VFK, and are debating whether or not they want to try to stop VFK (heck, they may have already sent a letter to VFK, and VFK may have chosen to ignore it so they can make some cash before they close). The powers that be at Disney may just be waiting until VFK gets to the point where they know they have a solid case against VFK to get them shut down (and from what I saw last night, I think they do--there were a lot of similarities).

[snowgracefulstone]

They want you to think that they are making progress

maybe its just me and im overtired or something, but i still dont see how comments like these are helping to keep any children safe or are addressing major issues with the game. To me, these are the kind of posts that are inflaming the debates and causing so many members of this board to just stop posting. And just to clear up another earlier comment, this board is not the only previously devoted vmk board that has threads and discussions concerning vfk, i belong to two that i visit on a daily basis, but i can say that the postings arent nearly as negative on either of those boards as they are here.

Just my two cents.

[aliceblue]

And just to clear up another earlier comment, this board is not the only previously devoted vmk board that has threads and discussions concerning vfk, i belong to two that i visit on a daily basis, but i can say that the postings arent nearly as negative on either of those boards as they are here.

Just my two cents.My apologies if I wasn't aware of threads on some of the other VMK boards; my comment was prompted by knowledge of one board in particular.

I'm glad to hear that discussions of VFK are being allowed elsewhere. But the percentage of positive or negative opinions in those threads, in my opinion, is not nearly as important as the willingness of those reading and commenting to investigate issues affecting player safety.

[KingQuackATac]

I just don't understand why "player safety" is barely discussed on other threads about games where anything can be said or suggested.

On VFK, there is limited text and plenty of VFK hosts walking around making sure inappropriate conversation stops.

This is the safety issue I'm concerned about for my children.

I understand the COPPA regulation and I think VFK should follow this. But ultimately child safety is the parents responsibility.

[Dreamytime]

I understand the COPPA regulation and I think VFK should follow this. But ultimately child safety is the parents responsibility.

It is why COPPA is around...because it is a parent's responsibility.
(9) VERIFIABLE PARENTAL CONSENT.—The term "verifiable parental consent" means any reasonable effort (taking into consideration available technology), including a request for authorization for future collection, use, and disclosure described in the notice, to ensure that a parent of a child receives notice of the operator's personal information collection, use, and disclosure practices, and authorizes the collection, use, and disclosure, as applicable, of personal information and the subsequent use of that information before that information is collected from that child.

It is a safety measure to make sure that any child under the age of 13 has parent's approval before giving out the information that VFK (and other websites) request. One of the biggest things with the statute is that the website operator who has requested information about children under the age of 13, must "protect the security or integrity of its website". This is the area that sticks in Aengus' and many other people's craw. There is no security on this website. It is not encrypted. There are no safety measures in place to keep the log-in information, registration information, etc. from falling into other people's hands.

For a full read of the COPPA regulation go to http://www.coppa.org/coppa.htm

Not to mention that same lack of encryption holds true with the credit card information sent to VFK. As a poor masters student, I don't want my credit card information out for anyone to see. I'm going to need that available balance in about 6 weeks for books. :) But, that is a second place concern for me....the kids safety might ultimately be the parents concern as you say, but it has to be ours as well. You are putting your head in the sand if you believe that every parent in the world knows what is going on in their children's lives.

I'm an adult. I am smart. I am internet savvy. Yet, I was just a party to fraud for 14 months by someone I considered a very good friend on VMK. Everything that I was told was a lie...gender, story, facts. I talked and played with this person every day. We shared a relationship outside of VMK. This person lives at home with her parents. Yet, her parents had no idea this deception was going on in their house...in their daughter's life. The parents were TOTALLY clueless. And, as smart as I am, as old as I am, and as internet savvy as I am, I was still gulled. Took me 14 months to find out, and will take several years in therapy to work it out.

What is going to happen to the 10 year old who isn't as savvy as you and I? Whose parents are clueless as to what he does? Whose parents believe that their information is safe when they hit enter on that keyboard?

[Dreamytime]

And just to clear up another earlier comment, this board is not the only previously devoted vmk board that has threads and discussions concerning vfk, i belong to two that i visit on a daily basis, but i can say that the postings arent nearly as negative on either of those boards as they are here..

I, too, belong to these boards. There are still the ongoing debates on those sites as to whether VFK is a 'real' deal. Internet safety is still the topic being posted there as well. However, you will also note that those sites do not have the daily, hourly, and some times by the minute postings about VFK (and other Non-Disney/VMK games) as this site does. But still, lately the debates on those sites have turned nasty because of the pay-to-play aspect of the game. There is negativism abound on the separate boards (who allow discussion) as well as positive aspects as well.

I believe that it is how you read and relate to the criticism and compliments that shows your own character. When attacks against things that are said are made personal, and several things have been made into personal attacks, I have an issue with that. It is a lack of respect for another person's point of view and just a clear lack of respect for the person.

I do not have to agree with what you say, but I respect you for your opinion. My opinion might not ever change your mind, but if it makes you think, Google for an answer, or question why you believe what you do then we are both better people for it.

[disvaclub92]

I just don't understand why "player safety" is barely discussed on other threads about games where anything can be said or suggested.


Not sure if you read this, but this was deep in the thread.

I would like to point out yes, we have advised on the boards that these are PG 13 games. We do our best with the help of our community and by ourselves to identify issues when they surface. Both Smallworlds and Sociotown have listened to individuals in our community and have taken our feedback.

To elaborate further, Sociotown has taking on game guides. These are individuals who are there to help individuals and to moderate in the game. Several VMK players/DIS Members serve this role. Additional changes are in the works as well.

As for Smallworlds, many of us have spoke with staff and asked for "behavior modification" in the game. At one point, they allowed a radio in a public area to play "anything you can imagine", we suggested in the game to be limited to acceptable songs and a few days later the change was made.

As for Gaia, AmberDaze published an awesome guide and has pointed out the best possible way for us to be safe.

While we know these games are not perfect, several DIS members have made strides to communicate and help these games make changes so that others can enjoy and be safe. The community here is trying to find fun homes and safe places for us to play.

[KingQuackATac]

It is why COPPA is around...because it is a parent's responsibility.
(9) VERIFIABLE PARENTAL CONSENT.—The term "verifiable parental consent" means any reasonable effort (taking into consideration available technology), including a request for authorization for future collection, use, and disclosure described in the notice, to ensure that a parent of a child receives notice of the operator's personal information collection, use, and disclosure practices, and authorizes the collection, use, and disclosure, as applicable, of personal information and the subsequent use of that information before that information is collected from that child.

It is a safety measure to make sure that any child under the age of 13 has parent's approval before giving out the information that VFK (and other websites) request. One of the biggest things with the statute is that the website operator who has requested information about children under the age of 13, must "protect the security or integrity of its website". This is the area that sticks in Aengus' and many other people's craw. There is no security on this website. It is not encrypted. There are no safety measures in place to keep the log-in information, registration information, etc. from falling into other people's hands.

For a full read of the COPPA regulation go to http://www.coppa.org/coppa.htm

Not to mention that same lack of encryption holds true with the credit card information sent to VFK. As a poor masters student, I don't want my credit card information out for anyone to see. I'm going to need that available balance in about 6 weeks for books. :) But, that is a second place concern for me....the kids safety might ultimately be the parents concern as you say, but it has to be ours as well. You are putting your head in the sand if you believe that every parent in the world knows what is going on in their children's lives.

I'm an adult. I am smart. I am internet savvy. Yet, I was just a party to fraud for 14 months by someone I considered a very good friend on VMK. Everything that I was told was a lie...gender, story, facts. I talked and played with this person every day. We shared a relationship outside of VMK. This person lives at home with her parents. Yet, her parents had no idea this deception was going on in their house...in their daughter's life. The parents were TOTALLY clueless. And, as smart as I am, as old as I am, and as internet savvy as I am, I was still gulled. Took me 14 months to find out, and will take several years in therapy to work it out.

What is going to happen to the 10 year old who isn't as savvy as you and I? Whose parents are clueless as to what he does? Whose parents believe that their information is safe when they hit enter on that keyboard?

The only personal info VFK asked for was a first and last name, and an email address.

What's more important for my under-13 year olds is what their eyes see in game and that the things they can say are limited to game-related topics.

I'm really sorry about what happened to you on VMK. :hug: I can understand why you're even more passionate about this subject. I don't approve of scamming in anyway, and I'm it probably happens in most on-line games.

Even though other games have a PG-13 rating, I still would not want my children when they are between 13-17 years old playing a game with unlimited text, which can include lots of bad stuff. That's my choice as a parent. If I did choose to let them play a game like that, my job is to monitor what's going on. That is much more difficult to do with unlimited text.

VFK has a "constitution" which doesn't allow a variety of things. I am watching for things that are unsafe or inappropriate (not that it's my responsibility) and report things to VFK staff when I see it. And they have been very responsive, banning players immediately or asking them them not to do it.

I agree VFK needs to resolve these issues. Hopefully they will.

[KingQuackATac]

Not sure if you read this, but this was deep in the thread.



To elaborate further, Sociotown has taking on game guides. These are individuals who are there to help individuals and to moderate in the game. Several VMK players/DIS Members serve this role. Additional changes are in the works as well.

As for Smallworlds, many of us have spoke with staff and asked for "behavior modification" in the game. At one point, they allowed a radio in a public area to play "anything you can imagine", we suggested in the game to be limited to acceptable songs and a few days later the change was made.

As for Gaia, AmberDaze published an awesome guide and has pointed out the best possible way for us to be safe.

While we know these games are not perfect, several DIS members have made strides to communicate and help these games make changes so that others can enjoy and be safe. The community here is trying to find fun homes and safe places for us to play.

I'm thankful for everything this community is doing to keep kids safe. BRAVO!

[TLinden16]

The only personal info VFK asked for was a first and last name, and an email address.



But once they started taking paid subscriptions, they were taking credit card info, and I would presume addresses (which are usually required when you use a credit card online).

I'm not under 13, nor do I have a child under 13, but know that most sites have a box to check when you sign up to signify that you are over the age of 13. Does VFK have that? I never signed up so I don't know.

[threeboysmom]

:hug: I hope you understand its important to bring them back up as new people from our forums read this everyday and I hope they read these things before even thinking about joining the game.


Maybe this has already been discussed... I'm not up to reading the past few pages this morning, BUT...

Why can't you just put a disclaimer in the first post, Aengus. Lay out all your concerns and cautions about the game. Post a warning - proceed with caution... play this game at your own risk...

And if you're so concerned about the "children's safety" all you you need to do is slap a PG-13 rating in the first post like you do for the others that are discussed here on the board.

There. Done. No need to keep flaming away at the game and endlessly "warning" people of the dangers of VFK. I'd really like to see the SARCASM stopped in this thread.

Once the first post is in place, the rest of us can be free to go back to discussing the game itself.

[Dreamytime]

The only personal info VFK asked for was a first and last name, and an email address.

If I send an email to that email address you gave me, doesn't matter if it is one just made or your normal everyday email you use to respond to your husband, aunt or grandmother, and you respond to me, I can find out where you live.

That scary enough for you? I found that out during my 14 month scamming. Even using a hotmail account. I was pinpointed when I was at home or at school...enough information was sent along with my email to tell exactly where I was.

[cyre]

I'm an adult. I am smart. I am internet savvy. Yet, I was just a party to fraud for 14 months by someone I considered a very good friend on VMK. Everything that I was told was a lie...gender, story, facts. I talked and played with this person every day. We shared a relationship outside of VMK. This person lives at home with her parents. Yet, her parents had no idea this deception was going on in their house...in their daughter's life. The parents were TOTALLY clueless. And, as smart as I am, as old as I am, and as internet savvy as I am, I was still gulled. Took me 14 months to find out, and will take several years in therapy to work it out.



oh my gosh if its who im thinking of, then :eek: omg! hug you poor thing!

[Dreamytime]

oh my gosh if its who im thinking of, then :eek: omg! hug you poor thing!

Yeah. Things are not what they appear to be sometimes.
TY for the hug.

[snowgracefulstone]

Maybe this has already been discussed... I'm not up to reading the past few pages this morning, BUT...

Why can't you just put a disclaimer in the first post, Aengus. Lay out all your concerns and cautions about the game. Post a warning - proceed with caution... play this game at your own risk...

And if you're so concerned about the "children's safety" all you you need to do is slap a PG-13 rating in the first post like you do for the others that are discussed here on the board.

There. Done. No need to keep flaming away at the game and endlessly "warning" people of the dangers of VFK. I'd really like to see the SARCASM stopped in this thread.

Once the first post is in place, the rest of us can be free to go back to discussing the game itself.



Seems like a perfect solution to the problem....new players are a lot more apt to read the first post in this thread, then to read thru 220 pages, attempting to pick out the safety issues. As the issues are resolved, they can be removed from the post, that way it makes it very easy for children and adults to see what the current, ongoing safety issues are and they can make an informed decision. I can guarantee that most people just starting in this game are not reading this thread all the way through before they decide whether to play or not, they are probably getting thru the first 50 pages or so and saying the heck with it and signing on, lol. I too want to make sure everyone on this board is informed enough to make their own decisions, this seems like the best and most efficient way to do so and that way we get our thread back...to discuss the fun we are having and help other players in the game.
Or set up two posts.....one strictly to discuss the safety issues in the game.
For those that are unhappy with this website and the way they are conducting themselves have to agree, their is no better way to get the safety issues across than a completely different thread titled....Warning!! Things you should know before playing VFK. Makes sense to me :thumbsup2

[dudeonator]

Pink, I totally agree with you about the sarcasm going on here. Here's what the disboards guidelines say about it.

3. NO FIGHTING/SARCASM: While we'd like to think that a Disney fan site is always lighthearted, there are times when there are disagreements. Let's face it, there are certain topics that can transform any of us into a raging "Donald Duck." When you sense this is happening, we ask that you step away from the discussion before it escalates into a fight. Just like Mom always said about fighting, we don't care who started the argument and we don't want it on the DIS. (Okay, she didn't say the part about the DIS, but you know what we mean.) No attacking others and no sarcasm please. Either will result in an infraction.

[KingQuackATac]

If I send an email to that email address you gave me, doesn't matter if it is one just made or your normal everyday email you use to respond to your husband, aunt or grandmother, and you respond to me, I can find out where you live.

That scary enough for you? I found that out during my 14 month scamming. Even using a hotmail account. I was pinpointed when I was at home or at school...enough information was sent along with my email to tell exactly where I was.


Sounds very scarry. Again, I'm very sorry this happened to you. But VMK was using COPPA - and it didn't stop this from happening.

[KingQuackATac]

Maybe this has already been discussed... I'm not up to reading the past few pages this morning, BUT...

Why can't you just put a disclaimer in the first post, Aengus. Lay out all your concerns and cautions about the game. Post a warning - proceed with caution... play this game at your own risk...

And if you're so concerned about the "children's safety" all you you need to do is slap a PG-13 rating in the first post like you do for the others that are discussed here on the board.

There. Done. No need to keep flaming away at the game and endlessly "warning" people of the dangers of VFK. I'd really like to see the SARCASM stopped in this thread.

Once the first post is in place, the rest of us can be free to go back to discussing the game itself.

I agree.

[KrazyPete]

There's actually not a lot of disagreement here. Everyone knows there are problems with VFK. Should they be following COPPA? Sure. Are they copying VMK to the point of infringment? Maybe so. Are there risks to children who may be playing the game unsupervised? Yup. Should credit card information be encrypted when it's transferred online? Yes. Does anyone disagree with any of that? :confused3

There is some disagreement as to the seriousness of each these issues. Let's talk about it. I love debate. I wanted this thread for precisely that reason. The pros and the cons of the game should be fully and publically vetted. That's what is good for this community.

Here's my main issue with this thread right now; I don't believe for one second that every cheap shot taken at this game is "for the children." I've tried to keep my mouth shut about it but I am bothered by the snarky comments and I don't think it's good for this community.

My other (lesser) problem is simply that once you make a point you don't have to repost it over and over again. All of these issues are continuing to be discussed. They get mentioned in the natural flow of the conversation. You're not going to create agreement simply by repetition. In fact, it's annoying.

ETA: I don't mean to single out any one person with this. If you feel this post is a personal attack then you may be part of the problem but it's not solely directed at you.

[snowgracefulstone]

There's actually not a lot of disagreement here. Everyone knows there are problems with VFK. Should they be following COPPA? Sure. Are they copying VMK to the point of infringment? Maybe so. Are there risks to children who may be playing the game unsupervised? Yup. Should credit card information be encrypted when it's transferred online? Yes. Does anyone disagree with any of that? :confused3

There is some disagreement as to the seriousness of each these issues. Let's talk about it. I love debate. I wanted this thread for precisely that reason. The pros and the cons of the game should be fully and publically vetted. That's what is good for this community.

Here's my main issue with this thread right now; I don't believe for one second that every cheap shot taken at this game is "for the children." I've tried to keep my mouth shut about it but I am bothered by the snarky comments and I don't think it's good for this community.

My other (lesser) problem is simply that once you make a point you don't have to repost it over and over again. All of these issues are continuing to be discussed. They get mentioned in the natural flow of the conversation. You're not going to create agreement simply by repetition. In fact, it's annoying.

ETA: I don't mean to single out any one person with this. If you feel this post is a personal attack then you may be part of the problem but it's not solely directed at you.


Couldnt agree with you more, just want to add one thing, i think the reason there is not a lot of disagreement on here now is that a lot of "the supporters" of the game have stopped posting, and that is too bad. If u go back.....say 100 pages or so, lol, there is a lot of disagreement :lmao:

[TLinden16]

Maybe this has already been discussed... I'm not up to reading the past few pages this morning, BUT...

Why can't you just put a disclaimer in the first post, Aengus. Lay out all your concerns and cautions about the game. Post a warning - proceed with caution... play this game at your own risk...

And if you're so concerned about the "children's safety" all you you need to do is slap a PG-13 rating in the first post like you do for the others that are discussed here on the board.

There. Done. No need to keep flaming away at the game and endlessly "warning" people of the dangers of VFK. I'd really like to see the SARCASM stopped in this thread.

Once the first post is in place, the rest of us can be free to go back to discussing the game itself.


Pink, the one thing about this is that a lot of people don't naturally go to the first post on a thread. If a thread is as long as this, they are going to want to read the most recent information on it.

While it would be helpful to have that information in the first post, it is just as helpful to have it in later posts and as things come up, especially when there is so much concern surrounding it.

Repeatedly warning people about the dangers of VFK is not sarcasm. Complaining about the similarities to VMK and what is clearly a company infringing on Disney's intellectual property is not sarcasm. We all are welcome to voice our opinions here as long as we are respectful.

If you love the game, and want to play it, that's fine. That's your business. You're welcome to come here and talk about it.

While I can understand people who are looking at VFK as a way to fill the void left by VMK, I have to admit that I can't completely understand why people are so vigorously defending a company with very shady business practices.

While I respect people's rights to play and enjoy this game, I have to admit that I can't understand completely understand why people are trusting their credit card numbers with a company that doesn't follow the COPPPA laws, don't have a secure site to protect people's personal information, and has such shady business practices (i.e. registered domain names the day after vmk announced the closure, copies Disney's intellectual priority). I guess I can't understand why people aren't concerned about protecting themselves when there is so much identity theft and internet fraud out there.

[TLinden16]

All this talk about vfk has me wondering something.

Are all of the old VMK staff who joined on as VFK still active in the game? When was the last time you saw the old VMK staff who are now VFK staff on VFK?

With all the discussion this may have gotten lost and I just wanted to put this out there again to see when the last time the active players on VFK have seen the former VMK staff members in the game.

[Cardinal]

Maybe this has already been discussed... I'm not up to reading the past few pages this morning, BUT...

Why can't you just put a disclaimer in the first post, Aengus. Lay out all your concerns and cautions about the game. Post a warning - proceed with caution... play this game at your own risk...

And if you're so concerned about the "children's safety" all you you need to do is slap a PG-13 rating in the first post like you do for the others that are discussed here on the board.

There. Done. No need to keep flaming away at the game and endlessly "warning" people of the dangers of VFK. I'd really like to see the SARCASM stopped in this thread.

Once the first post is in place, the rest of us can be free to go back to discussing the game itself.

But why would anyone check the first page in such a long thread?

[KrazyPete]

With all the discussion this may have gotten lost and I just wanted to put this out there again to see when the last time the active players on VFK have seen the former VMK staff members in the game.

I saw Phinny recently. I would say it was within the last week or so.

[KrazyPete]

But why would anyone check the first page in such a long thread?

Because they are new to the board/discussion? I try to read an entire thread before I post in it. In the case of a thread like this one I would certainly read the first one.

[beejer]

Thank you KrazyPete and threeboysmom for your opinions. I was going to quit posting but you encouraged me to return.

I see Surfer daily as well as Lion. I have been busy playing games which I enjoy.

By the posts, here I feel I am regarded as some fool for trusting the game. I gave my credit card over the phone, and as far as wasting money, I have spent much more on one dinner out that I only have to work off the next day with extra exercise. But I do regard the incessant warnings as overpowering any game discussion. My friends do not understand why I continue to return to the thread because they have left.

If posters here are not interested in discussing game events and strategies, I will not continue posting. I will read to keep informed but I have no further input on the negativity. And my comments have nothing to do with the right and necessity of expressing opinions.


:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

[Mamacita]

The difference in the games is this, Sociotown and Smallworlds don't allow children under 13 to play. When I see that I look no further, my younger kids, including my 13 year old, aren't allowed to play. After much investigation I'm allowing my 15 year old to play Smallworlds but she knows my nose is in everything she does there. VFK presents itself as a child safe game, and while I am happy it's being moderated in game, parents allowing their children to play a child safe game have expectations that the site has proper security measures in place. Not all parents are internet savvy enough to know what to look for, but the site should be following these rules if they are going to present themselves as being child safe. Besides the violation of COPPA, these kids are being presented with this family plan which is making it extrememly tempting for them to share info with other players outside the game, and that is a very very dangerous thing and we've seen that it's already happening on the message boards.
That is why I keep speaking up, yes I do think that the game is a cheap knock off of VMK and that the company running it has little to no integrity in my eyes, but it's the danger that keeps me posting.

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

If I send an email to that email address you gave me, doesn't matter if it is one just made or your normal everyday email you use to respond to your husband, aunt or grandmother, and you respond to me, I can find out where you live.

That scary enough for you? I found that out during my 14 month scamming. Even using a hotmail account. I was pinpointed when I was at home or at school...enough information was sent along with my email to tell exactly where I was.

Would that be you IP and MAC addresses?

[KrazyPete]

While I respect people's rights to play and enjoy this game, I have to admit that I can't understand completely understand why people are trusting their credit card numbers with a company that doesn't follow the COPPPA laws, don't have a secure site to protect people's personal information, and has such shady business practices (i.e. registered domain names the day after vmk announced the closure, copies Disney's intellectual priority). I guess I can't understand why people aren't concerned about protecting themselves when there is so much identity theft and internet fraud out there.

I'll tell you why I play at the level that I do (which is not very much).

I'm not a lawyer. I'm not even sure if COPPA applies to a site that is considered "in development" with a limited number of "testers." VFK is collecting very little personally identifiable information so I'm not 100% certian COPPA comes into play. I'm not interested in that discussion and I'm not going to debate it because I have no authority on the subject. As far as I'm concerned, COPPA compliance is for VFK and their attorneys to hash out. If they've opened themselves up to liability, it's not my problem.

I'm not a lawyer. I don't know at what level VFK's "copying" of VMK becomes infringement. With all the Disney owned images being posted in this board, I don't believe we're in a position to police Disney's intellectual property. The Disney characters that I love are not in the game and their value is not diminished by the existence of the game. To me, it's a non-issue. If there is infringement going on then let Disney's attorney's handle it. They don't need me to get involved. They are more than capable.

This game isn't even close to a level where I would pay to play it yet. So if credit card information is exposed it's not effecting me. I'm not certain that it has been exposed. Believe it or not, there are methods of encrypting data that don't trigger the lock icon in your browser. I am glad that it has been pointed out here. If you are considering giving them your credit card number then you should be warned. Again, if VFK has opened themselves up to liability by a bad business practice, that's not my problem. It's not effecting my decision whether or not to play the game at this time.

I don't think that thier original posts on this board were offensive or even all that spammy. I do agree that they violated DISboards policies related to linking to outside sites and I think THEY should have been penalized appropriately. We were all penalized but I've let that go. If I were in their position, I would have liked to let VMK fans everywhere know that I was working on a solution to their problem. The only way to do that is through their forums.

My kids don't play. I unblock specific sites for my kids after I've had a chance to look at them and I feel they are safe. I allowed my 11yo to play VMK after much discussion about personal information and online safety. My 6yo was not allowed to play it unsupervised. I'm not ready to let them play VFK yet. Many of the reasons have already been posted in this thread. As a parent, I'm taking responsibility for what I allow my kids to have access to on the internet in our home. I appreciate the head's up I've gotten here about moderation issues and this forum provides me a place check up on the progress VFK is making towards fixing those issues. Incidentally, I don't let my kids have access to the DIS.

I play because I'm hopeful that VFK will eventually be able to provide me with a VMK-like experience even if it is missing the Disney Magic that made the original so special. I appreciate everyone's opinions here but I think the "danger to children" and the "shady business practices" are grossly overstated. That's just my opinion.

:duck:

[Belle1997]

Ok here is my take on Coppa. It is for the good parents. Who take time to see what there kids are doing. track their internet. Read their IM's extra. Protection if by some chance something gets throug their knowledge. For the kids who are unsupervised this does nothing to keep them safe if they lie on the application. Since no credit card is need they can say what ever age they are. Or they can use an email address that is link to them not their parents.

And for those kids a cry. For I am sure they woulod have gotten themselves into worst place than VFK. Having lived through the teenage years with my son. I was amazed at the crap and disgusting thing he was able to fine. And yes he did have secret email accounts. We were able to stay one step a head of him most of the time. But today most kids no more about computers than their parents. Fortunately this gap os getting smaller and smaller as the first generation to grow up using computers our now becoming parents.


So Coppa to me does nothing for the unsupervised kid. Just having them want to be on VFK means they are not surfing the net for other sites far more dangerous.!!!


The FTC adopted regulations under COPPA which require covered Web-site "operators" to:


Provide notice on the Web site of what information is collected from children as well as how information is used and the Web-site operator's disclosure practices for such information (this applies to all information, not just "personal information"); I believe VFK has done this.


Obtain verifiable parental consent (which requires more than a mere E-mail consent from the parent) to collect, use, or disclose children's personal information before it is collected from the child, with certain exceptions and special rules for newsletters and internally used information;

No I do not think VFK has done this but Did VMK? They sent an email but it says more than a mere E-mail consent

Upon request, provide parents with a description of the types of information collected from their child, or the actual information obtained from their child, and the opportunity to refuse to permit the further use, maintenance, or future collection of the child's personal information. Thus, in addition to having to obtain initial consent from the parents, if a parent withdraws consent at any time, the operator must remove that child's personal information from the system;

Ah what about the parents that tried to find out why their kids were banned. What info did they try and share on line. To be told they could not be given that information because they could not proove they were the parents.

Maintain reasonable procedures "to protect the confidentiality, security, and integrity of personal information collected from children." Other than first name and password do not think they have collected anything else.

I am trying to find out if in Canada our rules are the same as US as this is a US Regulations. Too does Australia or UK have this regulation?

[TLinden16]

Thank you for your insightful and well thought out post, krazypete. It definitely gives me insight into a different perspective on this issue. I applaud you for being so aware of what your kids do on the internet--I wish all parents were like that.

I will admit that the intellectual property thing is a key thing with me, and the main reason why I have chosen not to sign up for it. I work for an intellectual property law firm, and while I don't know all there is to know about IP, I probably have a better understanding of it than most posters here.

I have to say that part of the reason that the whole copying VMK bothers me so much is because of my lifelong love for Disney, and all of the amazing things they do. VMK was a great site, and brought so many wonderful people into my life. It was magical--a way to keep my Disney spirit alive between trips. VFK can duplicate the games, and the over all concept, but they can never duplicate the spirit and the magic.

Part of the reason I did not sign up for VFK is because I don't want a cheap imitation of VMK--I'd rather try something different, and I have found other sites that I'm enjoying to spend my time on.

I have spoken out here because I am concerned about the issues with VFK and how they affect my friends. I have to say that I fear that a day will come that when VFK closes and people are broken hearted again. The people that run VFK have done so many things that I would deem shady that I also have to say that I have a real fear of coming on here someday and hearing people say that they were scammed by this company--believe me I hope I'm wrong about that, but until I hear about security improvements, this is something I fear for my friends.

[disvaclub92]

Just curious, I want to better understand the Founders Package. I have heard some individuals who wish to be "adopted to the family."

Can someone who has purchased the package explain to me how this can be performed?

[snowgracefulstone]

[QUOTE=TLinden16;26121018]Pink, the one thing about this is that a lot of people don't naturally go to the first post on a thread. If a thread is as long as this, they are going to want to read the most recent information on it.

While it would be helpful to have that information in the first post, it is just as helpful to have it in later posts and as things come up, especially when there is so much concern surrounding it.





To me, this is just all the more reason to give vfk its own seperate warning thread, It would make it much easier then for everyone to find that information and also for vfk to find it, if they are interested in the concerns that we have

[threeboysmom]

Dreamytime, HUGS! :hug: I never knew you in VMK, but I had observed you many many times in game with a certain person always at your side. If that's who you're talking about, OMG! I can't even begin to imagine what you're going through and trying to sort all that out in your own head and heart.

So so sorry! :(

And now back to our regularly scheduled debate of VFK and children's safety and copyright laws, etc. ad nauseum...

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

Just curious, I want to better understand the Founders Package. I have heard some individuals who wish to be "adopted to the family."

Can someone who has purchased the package explain to me how this can be performed?
You have to give your login and password to the family head

[TLinden16]

You have to give your login and password to the family head

Wow. Now that is scary. Most sites remind people not to give their password to anyone. I hope people are being cautious if they do this.

Do players have the capability of changing their password on VFK?

[threeboysmom]

I would just like to clarify something here. Those of you that know me from the boards know that I love a good debate. I enjoy reading criticism when it's constructive. I love hearing other's opinions, good and bad, and hearing both sides of an issue. We had our great debates when VMK was around, and it was OKAY. We all had a love for the game even if we didn't agree with it at times or with each other - it was the unifying bond despite our disagreements. We don't have that unifying bond here; thus, we have to tread oh so carefully.

What I cannot agree with here is the MANNER in which many of these posts handle the concerns. I agree with the concerns. I agree that some of them are serious concerns and need to be evaluated as such. (By the way, I think VFK handled the credit card problem by allowing a person to call in their number. Done. Move on.) What I don't like seeing is the rampant posts filled with sarcasm, belittling, rudeness, and the "poking fun" attitude. I'm sorry, that is not called for in this thread. If you'd really like me to start quoting examples, I will, but I'm really not up to going into "attack mode."

Many of you don't like the game itself or agree with its principles. I just don't understand WHY you bother opening this thread and posting over and over. (Mods are the exception bc I do understand they need to keep on top of all threads.) I just don't get it. There's a game on the DIS that I personally don't like - I don't like the graphics.. I don't like the avatars... I don't like what I've seen in game. Do I go onto that particular thread and post daily my disgust and poke fun at everything in game? NO! Why? Because it would be disrespectful to those on the thread that enjoy the game, it would be downright rude of me, it would only sow discord among the players there, and it would probably begin to diminish the joy they were experiencing in the game. I would only ask for the same respect and consideration for those on this thread who DO choose to play this game and find some enjoyment in it. Please.

More and more people have stopped posting on this thread and are forced to find another forum where they can discuss VFK in the way it should be discussed, leaving only the naysayers here. Quite frankly, the main reason why I keep signing back onto DIS now is because of my POTCO thread where fortunately there is still a sense of community and fun and lots of teasing - things I greatly miss about the boards lately...

To sum it up - I'm not disagreeing with the concerns you all have. They are VALID concerns. I do NOT agree with the sarcasm here in this thread - mostly coming from people that don't even like VFK and aren't playing it for enjoyment.

Gosh, if a game becomes something that doesn't bring you any satisfaction or enjoyment, move on please. Leave this thread for the people that DO enjoy it (to a point... trust me, I am not a lover of this game.. but hopeful), leave the warnings/concerns for the mods to handle, and please please please leave out the sarcastic and belittling remarks about the game.

:grouphug:

[threeboysmom]

Wow. Now that is scary. Most sites remind people not to give their password to anyone. I hope people are being cautious if they do this.

Do players have the capability of changing their password on VFK?

I just checked the site and see no way of changing the password. Of course, I'm not the most website saavy person to be doing this. :)

Rolls, giving out a password DOES sound scary. But you have to remember... this is VFK. I'm not too worried about someone getting my password, signing into my account, and stealing my "pink couch" :)

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

Wow. Now that is scary. Most sites remind people not to give their password to anyone. I hope people are being cautious if they do this.

Do players have the capability of changing their password on VFK?

Not yet

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

I just checked the site and see no way of changing the password. Of course, I'm not the most website saavy person to be doing this. :)

Rolls, giving out a password DOES sound scary. But you have to remember... this is VFK. I'm not too worried about someone getting my password, signing into my account, and stealing my "pink couch" :)

Imagine a little kid giving out his password, and the person somehow gets his/her email, and the kid has the same password for everthing. The "Family Owner" could log on to the kid's email, send an email to himself, snag the IP and MAC addresses, and then find out where the kid lives.

[Cardinal]

Is there a way for the Mods to have a one post warning on each page of the thread? I was thinking of having something like

Warning:

VFK is currently in its planning stages and several DISers have found the game to be unstable and in some cases not trustworthy. The game does not explicitly follow the United States' COPPA regulations and their methods of subscription lack adequate encryption. While we realize that it is your money and you choose how to spend it, the DIS Community urges you to employ strict caution when dealing with subscribing and using the services of Virtual Family Kingdom.

This way, the VFK players can discuss their game and those who are lurking or just now joining can be warned. Debates can be held in another thread and the warning can change accordingly.

[the_jedi_master]

Imagine a little kid giving out his password, and the person somehow gets his/her email, and the kid has the same password for everthing. The "Family Owner" could log on to the kid's email, send an email to himself, snag the IP and MAC addresses, and then find out where the kid lives.

Since when do e-mails record your IP and MAC for the end user?

[wdwdreamin]

I would just like to clarify something here. Those of you that know me from the boards know that I love a good debate. I enjoy reading criticism when it's constructive. I love hearing other's opinions, good and bad, and hearing both sides of an issue. We had our great debates when VMK was around, and it was OKAY. We all had a love for the game even if we didn't agree with it at times or with each other - it was the unifying bond despite our disagreements. We don't have that unifying bond here; thus, we have to tread oh so carefully.

What I cannot agree with here is the MANNER in which many of these posts handle the concerns. I agree with the concerns. I agree that some of them are serious concerns and need to be evaluated as such. (By the way, I think VFK handled the credit card problem by allowing a person to call in their number. Done. Move on.) What I don't like seeing is the rampant posts filled with sarcasm, belittling, rudeness, and the "poking fun" attitude. I'm sorry, that is not called for in this thread. If you'd really like me to start quoting examples, I will, but I'm really not up to going into "attack mode."

Many of you don't like the game itself or agree with its principles. I just don't understand WHY you bother opening this thread and posting over and over. (Mods are the exception bc I do understand they need to keep on top of all threads.) I just don't get it. There's a game on the DIS that I personally don't like - I don't like the graphics.. I don't like the avatars... I don't like what I've seen in game. Do I go onto that particular thread and post daily my disgust and poke fun at everything in game? NO! Why? Because it would be disrespectful to those on the thread that enjoy the game, it would be downright rude of me, it would only sow discord among the players there, and it would probably begin to diminish the joy they were experiencing in the game. I would only ask for the same respect and consideration for those on this thread who DO choose to play this game and find some enjoyment in it. Please.

More and more people have stopped posting on this thread and are forced to find another forum where they can discuss VFK in the way it should be discussed, leaving only the naysayers here. Quite frankly, the main reason why I keep signing back onto DIS now is because of my POTCO thread where fortunately there is still a sense of community and fun and lots of teasing - things I greatly miss about the boards lately...

To sum it up - I'm not disagreeing with the concerns you all have. They are VALID concerns. I do NOT agree with the sarcasm here in this thread - mostly coming from people that don't even like VFK and aren't playing it for enjoyment.

Gosh, if a game becomes something that doesn't bring you any satisfaction or enjoyment, move on please. Leave this thread for the people that DO enjoy it (to a point... trust me, I am not a lover of this game.. but hopeful), leave the warnings/concerns for the mods to handle, and please please please leave out the sarcastic and belittling remarks about the game.

:grouphug:

I want to thank you for your posts the last few days, Pink. I am not very good at expressing myself and therefore have refrained from commenting on this thread. But you have said pretty much everything I've been thinking/feeling lately. I agree that there is much in VFK that still needs to be addressed and my opinion of the game is still iffy right now, but seeing the same items rehashed over and over again when all I want is info on what's new in the game gets really old really fast. And all the sarcasm is definitely not necessary in order to express one's concerns.

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

Since when do e-mails record your IP and MAC for the end user?

It was posted at some point in this thread :confused3

[the_jedi_master]

xD That's a load of help. ;)

[lisuhut]

Hi
Yes thank you Threeboysmum and Littlebelle for all the positive thoughts about the game ,i do play the game ,i do enjoy the game.
I also find some things better than vmk , dare i say it?
Yes i do!
The fact that you can play in single mode ,so people that at school, work ,or like me overseas, can still purcahse stuff, sort out their rooms ,with out losing valuable cedit earning time .
I also like the fact the quests go on longer ,for the same reasons, we are not always able to do quests at set times, so this gives everybody a chance.
I also like the fact you have a choice of quest prize .
As i have said before and will say again, these people can not win.
If it is not like vmk people moan and go on so.
If it is simular to vmk ,then that is wrong also.
So let us enjoy our game , give then time to sort out the bugs etc.
Lets find our old friends and begin again, with people that wanted us to do just that.

[Belle1997]

Imagine a little kid giving out his password, and the person somehow gets his/her email, and the kid has the same password for everthing. The "Family Owner" could log on to the kid's email, send an email to himself, snag the IP and MAC addresses, and then find out where the kid lives.

Just so everyone is sure your the head of the family does not get the email address. They get the sign in name (yes first name) and password. Once you have this in your famly you can not connect to the game via that way.

Though a scammer could use it to log in. But knowing IP addresses can be tracked they can be caught.

To me actually have first name and password seems safer because many know others email addresses and I think because we are not all computer savy do not use the best pass code either.

PS there have already been kids banned from VFK giving out personal information.

I witness this with VFK_Ivy talking to a guest that said she was banned and got no warning.

Actually I am constantly seeing hosts say brb someone needs help more than I ever did on VMK.


Also A suggestion: Maybe Dis Non disney games Board there should be a Sticky for the games many dis members are reading.

Each one giving PG rating and issues for parents to look out for.

Also in the moderators sigs a note of before trying any non-disney games please see sticky.

[threeboysmom]

Imagine a little kid giving out his password, and the person somehow gets his/her email, and the kid has the same password for everthing. The "Family Owner" could log on to the kid's email, send an email to himself, snag the IP and MAC addresses, and then find out where the kid lives.

OK, correct me if I'm wrong. I am NOT a computer person by any means... but from what I understand, if I sent an email to MYSELF no matter what email address I use, wouldn't the only IP address that shows would be the one for MY computer that I'm currently using??

As for your scenerio with a "little kid".... most little kids do not have their own email address. My 11 yo uses MINE when he makes game accounts, etc. And trust me, his password will never be the same as mine (he comes up with the goofiest concoctions...) :teeth:

[Disney Dreams]

Finally did it!!! I played all 60 levels of the Audubon game and earned a score of 28,665! :cheer2::cheer2: :cheer2:
CONGRATULATIONS! That's just amazing! Nice job! :dance3:

I might not log in but I read these posts everyday. I defintely no more than a casual player.
there is no secure login, and accepting credit card payments to boot
They do not follow COPPA federal regulations
they are encouraging the exchange of account information between players
they are trampling on the intelectual property of Disney (copyright)
Did I miss anything?
With all co-human respect: I think so.

- There are friends re-connecting with each other.
- There are people finding a little piece of magic for themselves.
- There are people achieving things they are very proud of that are not getting the acknowledgment they used to from fellow dis-ers if they posted it during VMK times. (like beejer did above)
- MANY people have stopped visiting the DIS boards that were members of our family because of the way in which VFK has been lumped into 1 impossible to navigate thread (unlike any other non-disney game discussed on DIS)

Couldn't someone sue them for not protecting their children correctly?
I am not a parent and I am not up to speed on child protection rules on line, but I do firmly believe it is first and foremost the role of the PARENTS to protect their children - irl and on line.

If you recall, the VFK discussion thread was closed because of DIS Board rule violations...
Curious what these violations include and how they are different from the other non-Disney games with threads here. Asking any mod who can reply, not directly aimed at Disvaclub.

Today I have felt like my voice is not wanted on Dis. And isn't that exactly what you are trying to say is missing? The family feeling? Today I haven't felt like family, or maybe like the new step-mom (child) whose words do not matter.
I am very saddened to read this is how you feel. I know that several of my adult, VMK friends have stopped visiting DIS because of the tone and bickering this thread started to take. Sad actually. DIS has always been a place where my friends were. Now, few are left because they feel it is not a friendly place. :(

I understand what you are saying with this and reason(s) why. I would like to know something though. Do you or someone else continually post of safety issues for children on all the other threads for Sociotown, or Smallworlds, and/or any other ones where there is unfiltered/unmoderated chat?

yes, but people are already saying PLZ PLZ let me be in your family so i can have a hat!! PLZ, i saw it on other boards already, and then they give that person the information... and... you know what can happen to a naive kid at that point.
Agreed. However, after this is pointed out as a bad choice to make so that everyone can be cautious, is it the role of DIS to protect everyone from themselves? Warn, aid, give head's up. ABSOLUTELY. But at some point, it is up to the individual player. Anything can be said in SmallWorlds - and I mean anything. No one seems to be bashing it. Perhaps a cautionary note should be advised on VFK on these boards and then it could just be treated like all other games discussed here.

Again, not addressing this directly toward you, Aengus, more towards any DIS mod.

I just don't understand why "player safety" is barely discussed on other threads about games where anything can be said or suggested.
Me either.

But ultimately child safety is the parents responsibility.
Exactly!

I'm an adult. I am smart. I am internet savvy. Yet, I was just a party to fraud for 14 months by someone I considered a very good friend on VMK. Everything that I was told was a lie...gender, story, facts. I talked and played with this person every day. We shared a relationship outside of VMK. This person lives at home with her parents. Yet, her parents had no idea this deception was going on in their house...in their daughter's life. The parents were TOTALLY clueless. And, as smart as I am, as old as I am, and as internet savvy as I am, I was still gulled. Took me 14 months to find out, and will take several years in therapy to work it out.
Oh Dream! :hug:

The difference in the games is this, Sociotown and Smallworlds don't allow children under 13 to play. When I see that I look no further, my younger kids, including my 13 year old, aren't allowed to play.... VFK presents itself as a child safe game, and while I am happy it's being moderated in game, parents allowing their children to play a child safe game have expectations that the site has proper security measures in place.
And sadly, we can't MAKE parents care, but if a parent is THAT not involved, then chances are their kids know how to sign up for a game with a birthdate that makes them appear to be over 13 because their parents aren't paying attention anyways. If parents aren't willing to step up, that is THEIR fault, not some governing agency's - or message board's. I fully realize I am the voice of a non-parent, but I have many friends with kids and they know what their kids are doing because they are involved in their children's worlds. I don't understand why the DISBoards as a whole must feel the need to limit discussions on this ONE game when so many others discussed here are not kid safe. We KNOW there are lots of adults here that like gaming - sadly many have left for a message board community that is more like what we used to have here. I don't get why VFK is being treated differently. And somehow, it's creating a LOT of fighting. Sad really.

:hug: everyone. May you find the friends and magic again.
Dreams

[Cardinal]

Can I reiterate my idea?

Link-y link (http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26125917&postcount=3414)

[TLinden16]

I would just like to clarify something here. Those of you that know me from the boards know that I love a good debate. I enjoy reading criticism when it's constructive. I love hearing other's opinions, good and bad, and hearing both sides of an issue. We had our great debates when VMK was around, and it was OKAY. We all had a love for the game even if we didn't agree with it at times or with each other - it was the unifying bond despite our disagreements. We don't have that unifying bond here; thus, we have to tread oh so carefully.

What I cannot agree with here is the MANNER in which many of these posts handle the concerns. I agree with the concerns. I agree that some of them are serious concerns and need to be evaluated as such. (By the way, I think VFK handled the credit card problem by allowing a person to call in their number. Done. Move on.) What I don't like seeing is the rampant posts filled with sarcasm, belittling, rudeness, and the "poking fun" attitude. I'm sorry, that is not called for in this thread. If you'd really like me to start quoting examples, I will, but I'm really not up to going into "attack mode."

Many of you don't like the game itself or agree with its principles. I just don't understand WHY you bother opening this thread and posting over and over. (Mods are the exception bc I do understand they need to keep on top of all threads.) I just don't get it. There's a game on the DIS that I personally don't like - I don't like the graphics.. I don't like the avatars... I don't like what I've seen in game. Do I go onto that particular thread and post daily my disgust and poke fun at everything in game? NO! Why? Because it would be disrespectful to those on the thread that enjoy the game, it would be downright rude of me, it would only sow discord among the players there, and it would probably begin to diminish the joy they were experiencing in the game. I would only ask for the same respect and consideration for those on this thread who DO choose to play this game and find some enjoyment in it. Please.

More and more people have stopped posting on this thread and are forced to find another forum where they can discuss VFK in the way it should be discussed, leaving only the naysayers here. Quite frankly, the main reason why I keep signing back onto DIS now is because of my POTCO thread where fortunately there is still a sense of community and fun and lots of teasing - things I greatly miss about the boards lately...

To sum it up - I'm not disagreeing with the concerns you all have. They are VALID concerns. I do NOT agree with the sarcasm here in this thread - mostly coming from people that don't even like VFK and aren't playing it for enjoyment.

Gosh, if a game becomes something that doesn't bring you any satisfaction or enjoyment, move on please. Leave this thread for the people that DO enjoy it (to a point... trust me, I am not a lover of this game.. but hopeful), leave the warnings/concerns for the mods to handle, and please please please leave out the sarcastic and belittling remarks about the game.

:grouphug:

Pink, believe me, I respect your opinion. I've known you for several years now through VMK, and had the pleasure of spending an afternoon with you, one of your sons, and several other VMK fans one afternoon (and the mug your son made for me is just inches away from me on my desk as I type this, and I drink water from it each day at work, and smile remembering how much I appreciate your friendship, and the friendship of your boys, and all the fond memories I have spending time with all of you on VMK).

I also respect the opinions of a lot of the other posters here, and when I see posters like Aengus, Disvaclub, Mamacita, and Mims are expressing serious concerns about something that I consider to be very valid, I'm going to pay attention and listen to what they are trying to say. Please don't think I'm saying that VFK supporters opinions aren't valid because they are vailid. I have nothing against people enjoying the game and sharing their experiences about it here.

The main reason why people are concerned about VFK, and why people are speaking out on VFK so much is because there are so many issues with it, and those issues are very major, in my opinion. SocioTown, SmallWorlds, and all the other sites aren't perfect either, but at least they seem to have a clear vision of what direction they want their game to go in, and they don't seem to have the shady business practices I've seen from VFK.

I have had red flags with VFK from the day they announced the game, which is part of the reason why I chose not to sign up for the game. They registered the domain name the day after VMK announced it would be closing, using a name that was very similar to VMK. Right away, I had to question the integrity of this company--to me they were just preying on people who were emotional for losing something that meant so much to them. I made the personal decision not to register for this game because I don't agree with that kind of business practice.

Although I haven't said it here yet, I also have to question why VFK only opened up their paid membership for 48 hours. It just seems to me that they were out to make some quick cash here. It seems very fishy to me. Putting the time limit on there makes people make rash decisions so that they don't miss out--it forces people to pay without really thinking it through. To me, it seems like VFK is playing people.

The reason why I come and voice my concerns here is because I have friends who play the game, and I don't want to see people I know and care about be taken for a ride by a company with questionable business practices. I will speak out against any company that I feel is being immoral and taking advantage of people. We sometimes walk around with blinders when we are passionate about something, and at times we need to be reminded to keep our guard up, protect ourselves, and think before act. I just don't want people to be hurt.

Basicially, the reason why I post my concerns is to remind people that this is not a proven company, and that they have to protect themselves even if they enjoy playing the game.

[beejer]

Thank you Disney Dreams for acknowledging my post. I had hoped to generate some discussion about how people remember the different birds and perhaps start some talk about strategies for high firework scores. I am not a gamer so I can use all the advice I can get on them. I don't think is much interest here, though, on actually playing the game.




:tinker: :tinker: :tinker: .

[threeboysmom]

Thank you Disney Dreams for acknowledging my post. I had hoped to generate some discussion about how people remember the different birds and perhaps start some talk about strategies for high firework scores. I am not a gamer so I can use all the advice I can get on them. I don't think is much interest here, though, on actually playing the game.




:tinker: :tinker: :tinker: .

I for one would like help in that bird game. Congrats Bee, WOW, I'm AMAZED at your score considering I average about 80 points a game and thought THAT was GOOD! :rotfl2: To me, a warbler is a warbler... a woodpecker is a woodpecker... a finch is a finch... I'm so lost! Think the only bird I can truly identify is the sand piper... because in the picture, it's standing on SAND. :teeth:

[Cardinal]

http://www.mssu.edu/accents/newimages/Cardinal.gif

[Belle1997]

Is there a way for the Mods to have a one post warning on each page of the thread? I was thinking of having something like



This way, the VFK players can discuss their game and those who are lurking or just now joining can be warned. Debates can be held in another thread and the warning can change accordingly.

Yes that is a good point something I hope they can do.

[threeboysmom]

Pink, believe me, I respect your opinion. I've known you for several years now through VMK, and had the pleasure of spending an afternoon with you, one of your sons, and several other VMK fans one afternoon (and the mug your son made for me is just inches away from me on my desk as I type this, and I drink water from it each day at work, and smile remembering how much I appreciate your friendship, and the friendship of your boys, and all the fond memories I have spending time with all of you on VMK).

I also respect the opinions of a lot of the other posters here, and when I see posters like Aengus, Disvaclub, Mamacita, and Mims are expressing serious concerns about something that I consider to be very valid, I'm going to pay attention and listen to what they are trying to say. Please don't think I'm saying that VFK supporters opinions aren't valid because they are vailid. I have nothing against people enjoying the game and sharing their experiences about it here.

The main reason why people are concerned about VFK, and why people are speaking out on VFK so much is because there are so many issues with it, and those issues are very major, in my opinion. SocioTown, SmallWorlds, and all the other sites aren't perfect either, but at least they seem to have a clear vision of what direction they want their game to go in, and they don't seem to have the shady business practices I've seen from VFK.

I have had red flags with VFK from the day they announced the game, which is part of the reason why I chose not to sign up for the game. They registered the domain name the day after VMK announced it would be closing, using a name that was very similar to VMK. Right away, I had to question the integrity of this company--to me they were just preying on people who were emotional for losing something that meant so much to them. I made the personal decision not to register for this game because I don't agree with that kind of business practice.

Although I haven't said it here yet, I also have to question why VFK only opened up their paid membership for 48 hours. It just seems to me that they were out to make some quick cash here. It seems very fishy to me. Putting the time limit on there makes people make rash decisions so that they don't miss out--it forces people to pay without really thinking it through. To me, it seems like VFK is playing people.

The reason why I come and voice my concerns here is because I have friends who play the game, and I don't want to see people I know and care about be taken for a ride by a company with questionable business practices. I will speak out against any company that I feel is being immoral and taking advantage of people. We sometimes walk around with blinders when we are passionate about something, and at times we need to be reminded to keep our guard up, protect ourselves, and think before act. I just don't want people to be hurt.

Basicially, the reason why I post my concerns is to remind people that this is not a proven company, and that they have to protect themselves even if they enjoy playing the game.

Rolls, :hug: I totally respect your decision not to play VFK or even sign up for it. That is your choice.

I choose however to play it. Your posts and others like it warning me of the "dangers" and "shady business practices" are not going to persuade me or anyone else otherwise.

So I'm still unsure why this subject keeps being brought up over and over and over. The only thing it's doing is driving people away from the DIS Boards. Do we really want that? It truly breaks my heart.

[Sugar]

I'm an adult. I am smart. I am internet savvy. Yet, I was just a party to fraud for 14 months by someone I considered a very good friend on VMK. Everything that I was told was a lie...gender, story, facts. I talked and played with this person every day. We shared a relationship outside of VMK. This person lives at home with her parents. Yet, her parents had no idea this deception was going on in their house...in their daughter's life. The parents were TOTALLY clueless. And, as smart as I am, as old as I am, and as internet savvy as I am, I was still gulled. Took me 14 months to find out, and will take several years in therapy to work it out.

My jaw dropped and my heart almost stopped when I finally realized the extent of... I don't know what it is called... hug-needing?... of this post:hug: :hug: Dream:hug: :hug:

I'm really sorry that happened!

- Sugar :hug:

[beejer]

Thanks threeboysmom!! When I started playing Audubon game I was also scoring 80 points. Then, after much practice, maybe 300. I continued playing and read players' tips on other forums. Hey Cardinal, that bird pic is also a big help. A player on another forum posts a different bird picture each day with his posts and, believe it or not, it helps me remember them.

Just a few things I look for are:
*flycatchers usually have a butterfly in the picture
*the American Dipper looks like it is "dipping" for a drink
*the Ferrrengus Mockingbird pic looks ferocious for a mockingbird
*rock wren is on wood
*wood wren is on rock
*Song Finch has head tilted up like he is singing a song
*one of the birds starts with Pipiry...he has red tuft of hair and i remember
Pipiry has "r" for red in it

actually it is just making an association game out of it and u will come up with your own clues...i could write some more as i play it again
i think everyone knows that the last answer is never right as of now but is supposed to change in the future
try to get gas rather than click on alot of birds because the higher levels give more points..line up so u run over the gas can with the front end of your car and wheels straight

i am really enjoying this game and the accumulated credits are a great return


:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

[Rygo]

I do not have to agree with what you say, but I respect you for your opinion. My opinion might not ever change your mind, but if it makes you think, Google for an answer, or question why you believe what you do then we are both better people for it.
Thank you for saying this, I think we are all forgetting that with this thread...


Or set up two posts.....one strictly to discuss the safety issues in the game.
For those that are unhappy with this website and the way they are conducting themselves have to agree, their is no better way to get the safety issues across than a completely different thread titled....Warning!! Things you should know before playing VFK. Makes sense to me :thumbsup2
makes sense to me too. Though I can see it from the Mods perspective, let's face it, there a bunch of threads here, do we really need another aimed directly at any particular game? So here's my solution: Have one thread that talks about the safety issue with all the online games. There we can discuss any safety issue we have with any game.


Couldnt agree with you more, just want to add one thing, i think the reason there is not a lot of disagreement on here now is that a lot of "the supporters" of the game have stopped posting, and that is too bad. If u go back.....say 100 pages or so, lol, there is a lot of disagreement :lmao:
I know it's keeping a lot of my friends away from the boards, it kept me away for a very long time...until I found the thread for Ravenwood, which sadly lead me to this thread.
I also agree with beejer and DreamyTime, the people who enjoy this game are really made to feel small and insignificant by a lot of the posters on this thread. We're made to feel unwanted or like our opinions do not count since we aren't constantly bashing the game.
Thanks to Pink, krazyPete, beejer, Dreamy and the rest for saying what the rest of us have been thinking. :grouphug:

With all the discussion this may have gotten lost and I just wanted to put this out there again to see when the last time the active players on VFK have seen the former VMK staff members in the game.
I was just hanging out with Fin (and some fellow Dis'ers) on Monday, she did mention that she would not be on for the next two days as they are her days off. I also see Lion and Wolf regularly.

Thank you KrazyPete and threeboysmom for your opinions. I was going to quit posting but you encouraged me to return.

By the posts, here I feel I am regarded as some fool for trusting the game. I gave my credit card over the phone, and as far as wasting money, I have spent much more on one dinner out that I only have to work off the next day with extra exercise. But I do regard the incessant warnings as overpowering any game discussion. My friends do not understand why I continue to return to the thread because they have left.

If posters here are not interested in discussing game events and strategies, I will not continue posting. I will read to keep informed but I have no further input on the negativity. And my comments have nothing to do with the right and necessity of expressing opinion.
I'd like to add this: I too joined the Founder's Program, and I have spent ridiculous amounts of money on VMK cards and pins that are completely worthless now and just collecting dust in a drawer somewhere along with all the beautiful items those cards got me, thanks to Disney. Sorry to say, but so far :confused3 , VFK has yet to pull the rug out from under me when it comes to spending money, I (sadly) can't say the same for my favorite Mouse.

The difference in the games is this, Sociotown and Smallworlds don't allow children under 13 to play. When I see that I look no further, my younger kids, including my 13 year old, aren't allowed to play. After much investigation I'm allowing my 15 year old to play Smallworlds but she knows my nose is in everything she does there. VFK presents itself as a child safe game, and while I am happy it's being moderated in game, parents allowing their children to play a child safe game have expectations that the site has proper security measures in place. Not all parents are internet savvy enough to know what to look for, but the site should be following these rules if they are going to present themselves as being child safe. Besides the violation of COPPA, these kids are being presented with this family plan which is making it extrememly tempting for them to share info with other players outside the game, and that is a very very dangerous thing and we've seen that it's already happening on the message boards.
That is why I keep speaking up, yes I do think that the game is a cheap knock off of VMK and that the company running it has little to no integrity in my eyes, but it's the danger that keeps me posting.
I don't have kids, having been a kid once myself, I can honestly say, we found ways around all the rules that were set in stone in my house. It's part of growing up, breaking the rules set by your parents (and getting in trouble for it!!! Pay attention kids, you will get caught!) and learning from it all.

Just curious, I want to better understand the Founders Package. I have heard some individuals who wish to be "adopted to the family."

Can someone who has purchased the package explain to me how this can be performed?
I can only assume they mean they want to be added to the "family" to get the hat. Personally, I agree with all of you on this point. I see where VFK was going with this, and the naivety in assuming it would only be the adults getting this info. Seems to me, there should be a way to join a "family" without having to give out your password.

I want to say, I love reading everybody's opinion, but I really think it is time to move on. We all know where each of us stand on the issue and as it was stated earlier in this thread, we all need to agree to disagree. New members finding this thread and thinking about joining the game are more then likely to read the first page, they will see all the warnings and then skip to the end. I'll say it once more, we need a thread where we can discuss all the safety issues on all the online games. Separate the playing threads (tips, news, etc.) from the safety issue discussion threads.
Come on people!! We're Disney fans!! How did we all go from happy VMK discussions and disagreements, to all this in-fighting? It really makes me sad to see all of this!

[threeboysmom]

Thanks threeboysmom!! When I started playing Audubon game I was also scoring 80 points. Then, after much practice, maybe 300. I continued playing and read players' tips on other forums. Hey Cardinal, that bird pic is also a big help. A player on another forum posts a different bird picture each day with his posts and, believe it or not, it helps me remember them.

Just a few things I look for are:
*flycatchers usually have a butterfly in the picture
*the American Dipper looks like it is "dipping" for a drink
*the Ferrrengus Mockingbird pic looks ferocious for a mockingbird
*rock wren is on wood
*wood wren is on rock
*Song Finch has head tilted up like he is singing a song
*one of the birds starts with Pipiry...he has red tuft of hair and i remember
Pipiry has "r" for red in it

actually it is just making an association game out of it and u will come up with your own clues...i could write some more as i play it again
i think everyone knows that the last answer is never right as of now but is supposed to change in the future
try to get gas rather than click on alot of birds because the higher levels give more points..line up so u run over the gas can with the front end of your car and wheels straight

i am really enjoying this game and the accumulated credits are a great return


:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

OK.. the rock wren/wood wren TOTALLY made me laugh out loud!! I will never forget that now ;)

Thanks for the tips! Wow! I don't venture onto other forums. I'm a "one forum gal" but it's getting tempting...

I think my problem is I need to slow down in the game and really look at the cards. I think I click way too fast trying to get as many birds as I can before they fly away, especially in the first two rounds since those cards are really considered "freebies". Once I get to the room where there are THREE choices on the card, I'm toast! :lmao:

And what's up with the "black" birds... I'm constantly clicking on shadows thinking I see a bird....click, click, click... where's the stinking bird card pop-up?? :teeth: Gosh, they should have made them PINK for crying out loud.

[Belle1997]

Thank you Disney Dreams for acknowledging my post. I had hoped to generate some discussion about how people remember the different birds and perhaps start some talk about strategies for high firework scores. I am not a gamer so I can use all the advice I can get on them. I don't think is much interest here, though, on actually playing the game.




:tinker: :tinker: :tinker: .


I agree this is the last place I will come for tips and suggestions. Congrats etc. We had a new game of Fireworks come out. And viola the battle of the sides took place. Copy right too much like VMK etc.

What I feel I can not get which I used to is helps on VFK. I would always check VMK dis boards first for any ideas and suggestions.

Now stay far away now for that you have to read pages to get any ideas.

Like I have vista and I can not play fireworks my lag is so bad. No I have to go to other boards. For that. Seems sad I would never really fall far from dis until this thread.

I understand many are saying you are just complaining to protect us. After pages and pages of complaints I tend not to see that anymore. We have been warned and warned. We have looked at all opinions and continue to play many many that do not post her play.

Even parents have decided to play and not let their kids play yet.

There are posters I do repected that have very valid opinions. Though I may not see the importance in some areas as high as them. They have been respectful.

I do appreciate that respect.

But the sarcasm not so much. If you notice the people you are trying to protect are not posting on this board.

I would really love to know how many dis players have left for other baords to discsuss aspects of the game. We have lots of post but it is bascially the same people over and over again. I am sure many come to read just do not post.

Seems like there has been a mass exodus both of people tired of the negatives and others tired of no one listening to their concerns.

It is sad I truly believe this thread has done more harm than good.


Heck I posted questions about Coppa I took the time to research it but had questions. Not one responded. Even the ones sprouting the need for it.

Yes wondering if VMK really did followed the guidelines as they are written and is this a US regulation could not really figure that one out.

But no we are still debating about debating.

It got lost already.

[dudeonator]

Beejar, congratulations on your accomplishment!:thumbsup2 :dance3:
I have also managed to make it thru 60 levels on the bird game. a few of the things that helped me are:

1- I never ever speed up or slow down for any reason.
2- If I can't identify the bird, I will keep it on my screen until I think I have the right guess.
3- I use funny word association (here's one of my strange examples)The Hermit Thrush reminds me of Herman Munster because it looks like the bird is hunched over like Frankenstein or Herman Munster looks like to me.:rotfl:

The credits are great in this game. It took me two years in VMK to make what I have here in 1 month. ;)

[Rygo]

I think my problem is I need to slow down in the game and really look at the cards. I think I click way too fast trying to get as many birds as I can before they fly away, especially in the first two rounds so those cards are really considered "freebies". Once I get to the room where there are THREE choices on the card, I'm toast! :lmao:

And what's up with the "black" birds... I'm constantly clicking on shadows thinking I see a bird....click, click, click... where's the stinking bird card pop-up?? :teeth: Gosh, they should have made them PINK for crying out loud.

:rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl2: :lmao: I am constantly doing the same thing!!! Personally I am more of a Purple girl myself, but I would settle for Pink if it made those "shadow" birds go away!!!
beejer, awesome tips!! I can't wait to try them out and get past my high score of 182 :goodvibes

[beejer]

Bird Game tip: I think it is much better to take it sow and not make mistakes and don't put your mouse on a selection until u are sure..i have tried to change my mind but it was too late...i improved when i slowed down, read the choices thoroughly, and looked at the pictures to differentiate black throated from black headed lol...the woodpeckers really get me so i am going to come up with some tips on them...most have red on them so that is no help Good Luck and please share any associations u make too...the funnier the better



:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

[SharkMeal]

Yup, beejer, that's how I get my scores of 28k also. I look for those clues. And
I have a good memory for the birds without clues.

Also:
-Pine creeping warbler is creeping down a pine tree
-Blue Mountain Warbler is actually a huge fat yellow bird rofl
-Scarlet Tanager is a black bird with a scarlet spot on its wing

etc just look for clues.

Also my high score in the fourth of july fireworks game is 9,429 :)

[beejer]

OMG Shark Meal!! I thought your rocked at Birds now u are doing it on fireworks...what is your strategy there? TYVM


aka maracita on vmk and vfk

:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

[threeboysmom]

Belle, my pm box has been FLOODED yesterday and today. I'm amazed at the number of former DIS posters that have told me they can no longer post on the DIS because of all the negativity. It's really really a shame.

Please use this thread for tips and helps. Don't let certain posters drive us away.

Maybe if we all use a certain color font in our posts, it will be easier to read posts worth reading..... like PINK, for example! :thumbsup2

[disvaclub92]

Heck I posted questions about Coppa I took the time to research it but had questions. Not one responded. Even the ones sprouting the need for it.

Belle, please note that individuals do have personal committments that do not allow us to always be on the board to comment. Give people ample time, when they are available and someone will answer your questions I am sure.


I want to address the concern in regards to sarcasm.

Please don't take this the wrong way, this is my view.

With the demise of VMK, we had a month to realize that we were losing, a good friend. We all deal with this differently. Some have accepted it, some are still in denial, and some are angry. Must I stress that as moderators we care about you all, can see each of you individually through your posts. Most posts of sarcasm are a result of inner anger at a previous post or an action that has occurred.

We do see posts that have sarcasm, but also take into account what could have brought it on. If it is continual sarcasm, we address it. If you are not happy with a certain individual’s comments, then place them on ignore. If the person is specifically targeting someone, report it, the mods will take action.

[Rygo]

edit-double post for some weird reason, I swear I did not hit the submit button more then once this time:badpc:

Though now I can add this: maybe we should use purple as our font :goodvibes Pink tends to be so light against a white background :rotfl:

[threeboysmom]

Bird Game tip: I think it is much better to take it sow and not make mistakes and don't put your mouse on a selection until u are sure..i have tried to change my mind but it was too late...i improved when i slowed down, read the choices thoroughly, and looked at the pictures to differentiate black throated from black headed lol...the woodpeckers really get me so i am going to come up with some tips on them...most have red on them so that is no help Good Luck and please share any associations u make too...the funnier the better



:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

My only association: Sand Piper = Sand

I get that one right 100% of the time! :lmao:

I know.... how obvious.... but it's the only one I've really come to know! However, if I ever see a Sand Piper in real life that's not standing on sand, I'll be totally lost. :teeth:

Yup, beejer, that's how I get my scores of 28k also. I look for those clues. And
I have a good memory for the birds without clues.

Also:
-Pine creeping warbler is creeping down a pine tree
-Blue Mountain Warbler is actually a huge fat yellow bird rofl
-Scarlet Tanager is a black bird with a scarlet spot on its wing

etc just look for clues.

Also my high score in the fourth of july fireworks game is 9,429 :)

Shark? Are you taken? I so need a rich boy! :)

Blue Mountain Warbler = YELLOW bird :confused3

Hmmm... that's not an association that automatically pops into my mind...:rolleyes: How the heck do you remember that one? :confused3

[vmkfan13]

Shark? Are you taken? I so need a rich boy! :)


Gold digger :rolleyes:

[threeboysmom]

Gold digger :rolleyes:

Shameless too ;)

[Belle1997]

There is an ignore button. Wow never knew that where is it found. How does it work. Like when I an reading posts does it mean that there post does not show up. Now sure what it mean.

Thanks big A. No I did not take offense to your post. About sarcasm. Just I think it is time that both sides stopped it. And Yes I mean many have, either posting critical or positives.

Myself included. I post a sarcastic note responding to another sarcastic note and so on and so on etc.

[threeboysmom]

There is an ignore button. Wow never knew that where is it found. How does it work. Like when I an reading posts does it mean that there post does not show up. Now sure what it mean.

Thanks big A. No I did not take offense to your post. About sarcasm. Just I think it is time that both sides stopped it. And Yes I mean many have, either posting critical or positives.

Myself included. I post a sarcastic note responding to another sarcastic note and so on and so on etc.

Belle, I am the Queen of Ignore, (that's ignore, not ignorance, mind you) LOL! Click on a person's name, then click on their public profile. You have the choice to add them to your buddy list or add them to your ignore list. Woot!

You can still see that that particular person posted... but you can't read a word of what they wrote :teeth:

[Sugar]

You can still see that that particular person posted... but you can't read a word of what they wrote :teeth:

Like now, Pink can't see what I posted, but I posted! :rotfl: :rotfl:


:hug: Hugs, Sugar :goodvibes

[threeboysmom]

Pink tends to be so light against a white background :rotfl:

I'll try from now on to always stand in front of a colored wall ;)

[threeboysmom]

Like now, Pink can't see what I posted, but I posted! :rotfl: :rotfl:


:hug: Hugs, Sugar :goodvibes

Eh? What's that you say? Speak up, dear, I can't hear you... ;)

[awesomepatty-cake]

Everytime I start to think I remember the birds and finally score over 1000 the next game I come back with 100 lol. Also yellow birds should not be called blue anything that has gotten me enough times that you would think I could remember lol.

[threeboysmom]

OK, mental note... always pick the yellow bird if the card says blue :thumbsup2

Are you all pulling my leg? :confused3

[aengus]

I am sorry if people do not like the way I moderate but I will be posting any opportunity I feel it necessary on the problems with this game

Since you know my position on this, perhaps you could ask vfk to start following coppa and have a secure login.

Then the problem would be resolved.

[MickeyBeast]

It really has nothing to do with moderating and more with commentating!

[beejer]

Hi awesomepatty-cake!
inconsistent scores were my problem too...one game would be 8000 and the next 300 but eventually they begin to stick...kind of like using flash cards to teach babies LOL now my low scores are 13,000...still get some warblers confused

Good Luck!!


:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

[NedsTJ]

OK - can we talk fireworks then? LOL. Is it the same as VMK...more points the closer it is to the end of the "flare"? And do you score better hitting the firework more dead-center rather than just catching the edge? Was trying to figure it out last night and was getting 10 or 20 points per explode...when I tried exploding early I got 8 points....anyone figure out the scoring yet?

[Mnementh]

Funny... when I read all the posts regarding the safety of the game and all the debates about the debating, etc. (not to say that these comments aren't warranted (from both sides of the fence)), I get irritated with the game as a whole and want to just forget it even exists. Then, I get to the posts where some people are actually talking minigame strategy and I actually want to sign on and play. Funny how that happens.

[beejer]

can't say i am good but i have tried different things and not certain what is best that is why i would like some feedback...i was using vmk strategy and waiting for one to turn to white star before exploding it...then i started hitting everything in site until one firework got to where it turned to white star...also if i have selected a certain shape, i click all that shape until a firework gets to top to explode...i think my top score was arounf 7800 so that is why i ask for tips



:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

[PrincessWendyBird]

OK, It has been a long time since I have posted here, but if I can help some friends with the bird game, I'm in. I now average 22,000 - 28,000 a game. Here are a few basic tips:
1. For now there is a bug in the game where the last answer is never correct. Use this to your advantage on the first 2 levels to start learning the birds.
2. On the second game screen, I never try for the gas can down between the logs and rocks - I never need it.
3. Hit the gas cans straight on with the vehicle. Slow down a little if you have to.
4. When I remember the birds, I use something in the picture to associate with a word in it's name. ie. titmouse birds usually have a bird "hanging" upside-downish with its little head up in the air. Bonaparte's something or other has a large pinkish flower.
5. Warblers usually have a black mark of some kind around their eyes.
6. Use berries or flowers to associate birds with their names.
Some people have said they are having trouble seeing where the bird shadows are on the screen. There are 5 positions on each level where you can click on a bird. I circled them below.

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/ahdahl/AWA1.jpg

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/ahdahl/AWA2.jpg

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/ahdahl/AWA3.jpg

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/ahdahl/AWA4.jpg

I am working on a comprehensive little guide to the birds, but have had to work on it in little spurts, so it may be a while. I can tell you the more you play, the easier the birds are to remember.

Hugs and good luck! :hug:

[Belle1997]

I just love the music in fireworks. Really fits to when you click them. Unfortunately my computer does not like it. I can hardly move my mouse by the second level and changes fire words keys it like waiting to paint to dry. I never did well at fireworks but it is a nice change from birds and the music is so cool especially ending with the 1812 overture:thumbsup2

Any suggestions on what to do. Oh yeah I run Vista the major computer memory hog that it is :(

As for bird tips. I try and remember something that stand out like hemlocks look like green spade in cards. Or if there is something bright like in kentucky something it has an orange flower. Odd thing in the picture that you remember.


Has everyone learned for every magic yet :) come see me I will show you this bug that for now makes five star look like it is just a spark.

[AmberDaze]

I'm an adult. I am smart. I am internet savvy. Yet, I was just a party to fraud for 14 months by someone I considered a very good friend on VMK.

Even more hugs to you my friend. I hope you are doing better since the last time we messaged. Biggest hugs!! :hug: :hug: :hug:

[beejer]

Thank you PrincessWendyBird for highlighting the bird locations...that saves time for those not familiar with them. You are much more comsistent in scoring than I am. Funny what triggers clues to us...I always see those berries hanging down as worms for the Worm eating warbler I think it is LOL...I look for colors to like prairie bird reminds me of desert colors...the tropical birds are colorful too...the flycatchers get tricky ...but when I recognize them without eliminating others I feel I have really accomplished something...Thanks again for posting



:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

[Dreamytime]

Even more hugs to you my friend. I hope you are doing better since the last time we messaged. Biggest hugs!! :hug: :hug: :hug:

Ty so much Days! And ty to all for the virtual hugs.

I didn't say what I said for the hugs (although they are SOoooo appreciated) I said it because even as smart and careful as I consider myself to be, scamming/internet fraud happens. We just need to be diligent to uncover any and all means that someone might try to fraud the kids or ourselves. Then we can truly have fun and find a magical place for us all to have fun and just be family. :wizard:

And as smart as I consider myself to be (cum laude here ppl!!) I cannot do that bird game. There is NO WAY. :P

[KingQuackATac]

I stink at this game, but on another board somewhere, I read about an AWA bug that sounded interesting. We just figured this out yesterday. And it will make this game very relaxing! (Note: this doesn't work for everyone for some reason).

Hopefully you own two magic enchantments. If you don't, please PM me and maybe we can work out a loaner/gift.

When you're in game - click on the hummer to pull up your signature/lanyard screen.

Then do a enchantment. What will happen is your hummer will turn into that enchantment and stop. Also, the gas will stop being used. (For some, the gas keeps running down and I don't know why)

When the enchantment wears off, the hummer will reappear but you will still be frozen and the gas will still be stopped.

At this point, simply (carefully) click on a bird and answer the question.

You can do this ten times a level, which is the max number of bird questions you can answer per level. If you click on a bird for the eleventh time, it will fly away.

If you accidently don't click a bird and you start moving again, quickly click on the hummer and perform a different enchantement to stop again.

Click anywhere on the screen to get your hummer moving again.

Get some gas (my favorite part) and move on to the next level.

Rinse, spit, repeat.

You still have to know your birds. But while this bug lasts, it allows you to think about the question longer without worrying about running into stuff, running out of gas, or just missing bird clicks.

This will help you learn the birds better with less stress, and also learn the locations of the "black" bird spots (in case you're having a hard time seeing them).

If you do the enchantment and keep moving, just click on yourself again and try a different magic. This should "freeze" your hummer in time.

If you happen to know a certain Princess, who also is sitting next to you, you can ask her if the bird is a blah blah warbler or a blah blah finch so you get the question right. I guess I'm the only one that can use that trick though. ;)

This will not work for everyone, and I'm not sure why. But if this bug works for you, and while it lasts, it may help you slow things down a bit to learn the birds. pirate:

[beejer]

Belle what is your vfk title so I can look you up to learn about the magic?


KingQuakATac...I tried using my magic in bird game but it did not work. With your thorough instructions I will give it another try. What is the top scopre for that game now that we can only go 60 levels? I am amazed the things people think of with these games.


:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:

[awesomepatty-cake]

Thanks for posting all the helpful hints on how to do better in birds. I can't wait to see how I do now.

[KingQuackATac]

Belle what is your vfk title so I can look you up to learn about the magic?


KingQuakATac...I tried using my magic in bird game but it did not work. With your thorough instructions I will give it another try. What is the top scopre for that game now that we can only go 60 levels? I am amazed the things people think of with these games.


:tinker: :tinker: :tinker:




The highest possible score is right around 28,800. Good luck with the bug. I hope it works for you. pirate:

[Belle1997]

OK, mental note... always pick the yellow bird if the card says blue :thumbsup2

Are you all pulling my leg? :confused3


no it is true and also it is very bird looks out of proportion to the other birds so think godizilla bird :)

[aengus]

It really has nothing to do with moderating and more with commentating!


Please elaborate

It looks like you are saying my comments are not welcome in this thread, but I dont want to jump to that assumption.

[WebmasterKelsie]

It really has nothing to do with moderating and more with commentating!

That is where you are WRONG, it has everything to do with Moderating and it's a shame a lot of you can't see that.

[GoofyWaterCoaster]

It really has nothing to do with moderating and more with commentating!

Are you sure?

[threeboysmom]

OK - can we talk fireworks then? LOL. Is it the same as VMK...more points the closer it is to the end of the "flare"? And do you score better hitting the firework more dead-center rather than just catching the edge? Was trying to figure it out last night and was getting 10 or 20 points per explode...when I tried exploding early I got 8 points....anyone figure out the scoring yet?

I totally stink at these mini-games. The only thing I've managed to learn in fireworks is that if you hit the firework with the wrong symbol, you get ZIPPO points! :rotfl2:

Oh man... I can't wait for pirates!

OK, It has been a long time since I have posted here, but if I can help some friends with the bird game, I'm in. I now average 22,000 - 28,000 a game. Here are a few basic tips:
1. For now there is a bug in the game where the last answer is never correct. Use this to your advantage on the first 2 levels to start learning the birds.
2. On the second game screen, I never try for the gas can down between the logs and rocks - I never need it.
3. Hit the gas cans straight on with the vehicle. Slow down a little if you have to.
4. When I remember the birds, I use something in the picture to associate with a word in it's name. ie. titmouse birds usually have a bird "hanging" upside-downish with its little head up in the air. Bonaparte's something or other has a large pinkish flower.
5. Warblers usually have a black mark of some kind around their eyes.
6. Use berries or flowers to associate birds with their names.
Some people have said they are having trouble seeing where the bird shadows are on the screen. There are 5 positions on each level where you can click on a bird. I circled them below.

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/ahdahl/AWA1.jpg


Thanks so much, Princess! So funny to me how I can see at least 5-6 "birds" in that picture that aren't circled! Grrr... stupid black shadow birds...

Your guide sounds awesome! Hurry, hurry! Get off the DIS and go work! (just kidding) :teeth:

[threeboysmom]

Please elaborate

It looks like you are saying my comments are not welcome in this thread, but I dont want to jump to that assumption.

Aengus, I took his/her comment to mean this - we're not having a problem with the moderators here... it's the others (commentators) that jump in and post very belittling remarks that serve no purpose other than make fun of the game and its developers.

MickeyBeast can correct me if I'm wrong...

[WebmasterKelsie]

I've been away awhile due to an injury and just spent some time reading this thread. I also spent some time in VFK. It's no secret we had/have issues with this game so to see they have made absolutely NO progress towards providing the "safe' environment they promised leaves us with only one option at this time.

It's also all I can do not to issue MANY infractions for the attacks I see on this thread. In my opinion, the Mods of this board have been more than tolerant in allowing some of your comments directed at them and the DIS.

I am closing this thread until we can discuss it further. We will not be allowing discussion regarding VFK on these boards until a final decision has been made.