Newsletter 23 April 2007

Back to Newsletter Main Page

This week Yavn's got the latest news on Questing - all live and direct from Walt Disney World!

Yavn Speaks!

Greetings from Florida! We're back with another exciting edition of Yavn Speaks... and now here's your host... me!

So how is everyone? First of all, let me tell you about that Churro, it was golden brown and delicious - but I felt obligated to down a Turkey Leg too, even though it didn't win the poll. I'm just glad I only you offered two options! ;-)

(''This section originally included the following image and caption:

Yum! Yavn downs a quick snack at Walt Disney World!

...but they were later removed)

The Turkey-Churro - the snack that eats like a meal!

Yavn's World Tour - Spring '07

We've done a lot in our first few days here at Walt Disney World, our first stop was EPCOT. As many of you know I'm a huge fan of EPCOT. (I know, I know, you're all eagerly expecting some furniture for that EPCOT Guest Room - I've got the team working on that.)

At EPCOT we checked out the enhanced Rio Del Tiempo at the Mexico Pavilion in EPCOT's World Showcase. For those of you familiar with the ride, it's been updated to include Jose, Donald and Panchito from The Three Caberellos. (If you've played our in-Park Animation Quest this is will give you a hint about the correct answer to the last question). It was awesome!

Speaking of Questing, this coming week we'll be working on new Quest and developing additions to the game. While we're on the topic of the game, hopefully you're all getting ready for that Dark Ride-A-Thon, which is this coming weekend - as I've mentioned before, there's some really cool stuff to get by participating - so be sure to ride! And check out the Event Info section for more details on the event.

A Questus for the Restofus

So you've conquered the Alice in Wonderland/Peter Pan Quest now it's time to take a spin with our pal J. Thaddeus Toad, starting today is the Mr. Toad's Wild Quest - if you still haven't played the other Fantasyland Quest you still have time, but get Questing.

Take a ride with Mr. Toad and win this great pin for your Fantasyland pin collection!

While we're on the topic, after a few delays (ok, more than a few) I'm proud to announce the launch of the new in-game Tomorrowland Quest, the new in-Park Tomorrowland Quest and another very cool update to a classic VMK Quest we were running in the Parks.

I'll have more news on this next week, but let's just say that you'll finally have a great reason to complete multiple Quest again and get a snazzy new reward for your efforts - yep, those seasonal Mickey Mouse Furniture cards are finally launching too!

Mickey Mouse Furniture - coming to a VMK guest room near you!

Since the seasonal Mickey Furniture cards are launching so close to Summer, we decided to launch the Summer card first. This way you'll have plenty more time to get to the Park and get the card. We're also hoping to have a release schedule of future reward cards very soon.

Ahoy Matey!

Well that about wraps it up for now - one last thing I want to mention though, with the release of Pirates of the Carribean: At World's End, we're pleased to be bringing back one of the most popular VMK themes - PIRATES! Next month is Pirates month here in VMK! Hey that reminds me - I think I'll see if I can catch a flight from Orlando to New Orleans for the Pirate Con going on now! I just wish I would have packed my chicken hat, eye patch and Pirates Underoos!

See you in VMK, Yavn

Community Reminder

From 13 March

Remember, it's against the VMK Values to create or open ANY type of 'relationship' room (rooms that include words like 'meet,' 'pick,' 'get,' 'find,' 'have,' 'taken,' etc.) in VMK. You'll be warned and possibly banned for opening any type of room that promotes this activity.

For more information or a reminder of what's acceptable in VMK refer to the VMK Values page.

Fantasyland 101

Tips for getting the most out of your visit to Fantasyland

1. How much do the Fantasyland rides cost and how do I ride them?

The rides in the Fantasyland Courtyard - Alice in Wonderland and Peter Pan's Flight - cost 10 credits to ride. To ride them, go to the turnstile in front of the ride and pay the required amount of credits when prompted.

2. Where can I buy the new Fantasyland Alice and Mr. Smee outfits?

The outfits are on sale in the Emporium starting April 13th and will be sold at least through the month.

3. How do I get Sword in The Stone Magic Single Use Pin?

The only way to get the Sword in The Stone Single Use Magic Pin is to ride Alice in Wonderland or Peter Pan's Flight. You will not get a Pin every time you ride. You could ride ten times in a row and not get a Pin. Or you could get one on your second ride - since the Pin is given out randomly so there is no pattern or method to how it is given out.

4. How do I use the Sword in the Stone Magic Single Use Pin?

Go to your inventory (the CHAIR icon/button at the bottom of the VMK interface window) and locate the Sword in The Stone Single Use Pin. Click the Pin and select WEAR. Now stand next to the Sword in the Stone in the Fantasyland Courtyard and click on the Magic button (the button with the Magic Wand). Select the Sword in the Stone Single Use Magic Pin or simply write 'Draw!' in message bar at the bottom of the VMK window.

Your character will now attempt to pull the Sword out of the Stone. Remember not every attempt will be successful. Once you use the Pin it will disappear from your inventory. To get another one, ride again. The Pin must be used within 24 hours from the time your receive it, after 24 hours it will dissappear from your inventory.

5. If I get disconnected during a ride will I get my credits back?

No. We cannot refund your credits if you disconnect or get disconnected.

6. Can I buy dark ride pieces?

Not yet. But some pieces will be awarded as prizes for the Dark Ride-A-Thon coming at the end of the month.

Event Info

Host Event Highlights – This weekend! April 20, 21, 22nd

Dark Ride-A-Thon April 27, 28, 29th

VMK Racing Day April 29th

NEW! Room Makeovers Every Tuesday and Thursday

Check the Community Calendar for more events, details and event times.

Host Event Highlights – this weekend!

• Friday – Host_Phinny has her Hop, Skip, and a Jump! race game.
• Saturday – Host_Lily adds some trivia into her room for some extra prizes.
• Sunday – Host_Hula takes you on a Mad Hatter's Twisted Teacups ride!

Dark Ride-A-Thon

Celebrate the arrival of Peter Pan's Flight and Alice in Wonderland to VMK. Friday April 27th through Sunday April 29th experience the first VMK Dark Ride-A-Thon!

Just hop on Peter Pan's Flight or Alice in Wonderland (located in the Fantasyland Courtyard) and ride to win! During the Ride-A-Thon dates every single time you ride either dark ride not only will you have a chance to win the Sword in The Stone Single Use Magic Pin, but you'll win a special prize for every single ride! The prize you win will be different each day - so be sure to ride all weekend! The VMK Dark Ride-A-Thon is coming soon!

VMK Racing Days!

Strap on your helmet and kick those tires, it's the start of the race season and VMK is going to get your motor running! Join HOST_Sparky on select Saturdays and Sundays during the racing season for special VMK racing events!

These special racing games like Chase Race and Race to the Finish will take place during a real auto race - so you can watch the big race and race in VMK at the same time! And only on VMK Racing Days can you win the VMK Racing '07 Pin. Keep an eye on the Event Info box and the Community Calendar for more updates and a schedule of race events.

The next VMK Racing Day is April 29th.

Room Makeovers

''Two lucky VMK players are selected randomly each week for a Room Makeover by our talented team of Room Designers. Join us weekly as we post their story (including before and after pictures) here in the Event Info section of the Newsletter. Submit your room for a Makeover through the Contact Us Tool.''

Winners this week are tinkietap and KingCaptainJosh, let's take a look at their rooms:

HOST_Lily

Did you ever wonder if Peter Pan and Tink can see the Tiki Room from Fantasyland? Well that's what tinkietap and I were wondering when we were looking for a theme to make over her room.

Tinkietap is a true Disney fan but only just recently found VMK! She loves how much VMK looks like the Parks and I wanted to add some virtual greenery to her room and make it come to virtual life.

She already had a great start on a river ride but a river needs some wildlife, so we put Palm Trees up on different height Palm Bases to add a more realistic look to them. (I think there are over 40 trees in there now!) I also hid two rows of 5 High Palm Bases so tinkietap could enjoy the view from her Hook Ship.

We altered the river a bit more by adding more access to the ship. Then I placed a few Ariel Treasure Chests and Karo Chairs for that Tiki Room feel. And what good HOSTess doesn't provide a hot meal and drinks for her Guest? And in case Captain Hook and his scurvy crew should try to come ashore the are Tiki's standing guard!

The Tiki Tiki Garden before...

And after... The Tiki Tiki Garden is all grown up.

Thanks for letting me make over your room Tinkietap - now I'm off to get a Dole Whip treat! Hey Yavn, forget the Churro! Fresh pineapple is the treat to beat!

HOST_Lily

And now another Room Makeover by HOST_Hula… Take it away, Hula!

HOST_Hula

KingCaptainJosh's Jungle was a little sparse, so we needed to liven it up with some furniture that was fit for a fine jungle camp out.

We lined the floor in Bamboo Rugs (to keep the dirt off their boots) and added some Barrel Chairs in a variety of colors (to give those weary explorers a place to rest - and to enjoy a refreshing drink after their expeditions)!

There was a teleporter already leading into the room so to camouflage it, we hid it behind Bamboo Dividers just to the left of the entrance. Tip: Room dividers are a good way to hide a teleporter or other large piece of furniture that may not quite fit in with your themes.

Finally, some posters brought back from his jungle expeditions adorned the walls, while headhunter torches provide light on the dark jungle nights

The Jungle Tent… before…

... and after the Jungle Tent VMK makeover!

If you are out exploring the jungle and need a place to kick back, visit KingCaptainJosh's jungle tent and say hello! I'm sure he'll leave the light on for ya!

Until next time, HOST_Hula

Top 5 FAQs

This week's Top 5 Frequently Asked Questions

For more answers to other Frequently Asked Questions, please visit the VMK FAQs.

1. I clicked on a piece of furniture in my Guest Room and I noticed a new button called 'Item Info' - what does it do?

By clicking the 'ITEM INFO' button you can display additional information about the item such as item name and status of the item, like if it's tradeable.

2. I've heard guests can now move my furniture? Is this true? And what items can be moved by my guests?

Guest can ONLY move furniture if you allow them to do so by setting the option on the item. They can't take or remove anything from your room, or take any item and put it in their own inventory. Only furniture and posters that are placed in a room can be moved by guests – and then ONLY if the Room Owner has allowed that item to be moved.

By default, furniture and posters can't be moved by guests, the Room Owner must select which items he/she wishes to be moved by Guests before they can move them. (To do this make sure the box beside the words, LET GUEST MOVE THIS ITEM is checked in the 'Item Info' window.)

3. My Trading Window looks different now - what did VMK change?

To address some trading concerns, we added new features to make trading easier. Now when you click on an item, information about the item is displayed on the right hand of the window. The information displayed includes the item name, the type of item it is (Furniture, Magic Pin, Single-Use Magic Pin, Clothing, etc.), who owns the items, whether or not it's tradeable, and the magic word you need to active the item (if a Magic Pin is highlighted).

In the Trading Window you can now view additional information about the other player's item. Simply, select the item and you'll receive information about it. (Now you'll know that Dancing Inferno really has as many stars as they claim by clicking on the pin in the offer window!)

4. How do I get the Fantasyland dark ride track pieces and furniture?

We're currently working on a release schedule for dark ride track pieces and select number of furniture pieces from both rides. Check the VMK Newsletter to stay up-to-date with new item releases.

5. I've sent in a problem using Contact Us but no one has replied - why haven't I heard from anyone?

We respond to every email we get within 24 hours - but some email providers (like AOL.com, Hotmail.com, msn.com, Comcast.net, Cox.net, rr.net and Earthlink) block our responses.

If you use any of the email providers listed above, or haven't gotten a response from us, this is the reason.

Some email providers have Spam Filters that automatically block email from an unknown source and you have to tell the program (the email application) to allow email from that source. To get email from VMK, go into the preferences for your mailbox and allow mail from: [email protected]. (Please note, this email address DOES NOT receive email except via the Contact Us form.)

You also have the option to submit an alternate email address in the 'Contact Us' tool (this option is under the Send Details box) if your provider won't take our replies. We suggest setting up another email account, like yahoo.com to get our replies.

Yeti's Tips & Tricks

You've got questions, Yeti has answers.

Can't figure out how to get that sword out of the stone? Are you stuck trying to create a Quest? Need some VMK gaming tips? Well, you came to the right place, heeeeeere's Yeti!

Greetings, one and all! It is I, the abominable snowman - but my friends just call me Yeti. Are you enjoying the new Fantasyland Dark rides? They're awesome, and so are the other new Fantasyland features, speaking of which...

How do I get the Sword in The Stone Single Use Magic Pin?

Well, you can trade the Yeti for it – JUST KIDDING, the pin is not tradeable. But you can get one, and here's how: First you will need to head on over to the new Fantasyland Courtyard. To do that, click the location on the Fantasyland Map:

The Fantasyland Map.

Ahhh… Fantasyland. Hey! Is that a churro cart I smell? Sorry about that, Yeti's stomach became distracted… Anyway, the rides here in the Fantasyland Courtyard - Alice in Wonderland and Peter Pan's Flight - cost 10 credits to ride. To get the Sword out of the Stone, you'll need a Sword in The Stone Single Use Magic Pin. The only way to get one of these Pins is by riding one of these rides - but you won't get a Pin every time you ride, no sir, you see the Pin is given out randomly.

If you're lucky enough to get a Pin after riding one of the rides, a window will pop-up telling you that you've won a Pin! Next you will need to go to your inventory (this is the CHAIR icon/button at the bottom of the VMK interface window) and locate the Sword in The Stone Single Use Pin.

Now click on the Sword in The Stone Single Use Magic Pin and select WEAR. For the Magic Pin to work, you will need to stand next to the Sword in the Stone and click on the Magic button (that's the button with the Magic Wand on it). Now select the Sword in the Stone Single Use Magic Pin or simply write 'Draw!' in message bar at the bottom of the VMK window.

Now your character will attempt to pull the Sword out of the Stone.

Remember – not every attempt will be successful. If you aren't able to pull the Sword from the Stone, a pop-up window will appear that reads, 'Nice Try! You didn't have quite what it takes to pull out the Sword. Keep on trying!' Once you use the pin however, you'll have to ride the rides again to get another one, since it is a Single Use magic Pin.

However, sometimes when you use the Pin you will release the Sword!

Great! You've done it!

As a reward for releasing the sword you'll win a prize – and a pop-up window will appear letting you know what you won. Congratulations!

How do I create/quit a Quest?

CREATING A QUEST

Questing is lots of fun. It's even more fun to create your own Quest that you and your friends can play. In order to create a Quest, you'll first need to purchase a Quest Kiosk from the Inner-Space Shop. To do that, you'll need to go into the shop and look under 'specials.' (I told you how to get to the Inner-Space Shop last week - remember?)

Once you're inside the Inner-Space Shop click on the SHOP button at the bottom of the VMK user interface window. Now select 'Inner-Space Shop' and then 'Specials.' (Oops, forgot to mention, you'll want to have your bank built up, because the Quest Kiosk costs 30,000 credits!)

Once you've purchased the Quest Kiosk, head back to the room where you want to place the Kiosk. But be aware, you can only place the Quest Kiosk in a room you own. Click on the CHAIR button and locate the Quest Kiosk in your inventory. Now click on the Quest Kiosk and click PLACE to position the Quest Kiosk in your room.

Now that you have your Quest Kiosk placed in your room, double click the Quest Kiosk and this window will pop-up:

From here you have three options: Add Task, Add Prizes, or Change Settings.

Selecting 'new task' will make this window appear:

From this list you choose what you want the task (or objective) in your Quest to be.

There are lots of options to choose from, including 'change clothes' to 'acquire an item' to 'play a mini game.' Once you choose what task you want you guest to do, you can write a clue to correspond to the task you selected.

For example, if you choose the task 'Visit an NPC,' (NPC stands for Non Playable Character) a window will pop-up with a list of the NPC's. Choose the NPC you want the players to visit – like me, the Yeti. Then in the hint you could write something like 'Visit the NPC who's covered in fur and lives in the cold.' You can also add my picture from your photo album to correspond with the clue. ;-)

Once you finish the instructions for that task, you can choose 'New Task,' or if you are finished adding tasks click CONTINUE, and the PRIZES page will appear.

Select your prizes.

In the Prize window you decide what prizes the winners of your Quest will receive. You can choose items from your inventory, as well as credits. All prizes are pulled from your personal inventory, as well as credits – so make sure it's stuff you really want to give away.

Now choose the item you want to give to the first place winner and double click on that item to place it in the prize area on the right. You can choose how many winners there will be for your Quest by selecting 'Click here to add new winner' until you have the amount of winners you desire.

After you're finished selecting the winners and their prizes, choose CONTINUE to reach the CHANGE SETTINGS window. In this window you can decide when your Quest will end. This is either when all your prizes have all been given out or when the timer has run out. This is also the window where you name your Quest and provide the description.

Change your settings here.

Once you've filled out all the information, you can choose either 'Finish This Later' or 'Test This Quest.' If you decide to finish the Quest later, all you have to do is double click the Quest Kiosk. If you are ready to test the Quest, click 'Test This Quest.' When you click this button you will test your actual Quest to make sure it's playable. Once you do a test run and everything is ready, your Quest will be ready for people to play!

QUITING A QUEST

If you ever want to quit a Quest you are playing – either a player created Quest or VMK in-game Quest just click the red QUIT QUEST button in the Quest window. It will allow you to do exactly that – quit the Quest!

It's been a few weeks since I watched Snow White, but I'm pretty sure Snoozy was not one of the Seven Dwarfs...

Quest Courtesy

Yeti loves Questing! Here are a few tips on creating and playing a Quest:

• Make sure the hints for your Quest tasks are easy to read and understand and if you can, have a friend play your Quest before you open it up to the community.
• When setting scores for mini games, set them so guests can achieve them. No one wants to play an impossible Quest.
• Finally, when placing hidden items for your Quest, put them in places that are easily visible to other players. Don't place items behind furniture or stack furniture on them. And please, be courteous to other players – don't stand on Quest items or hide them from other players.

Ok, now let's go enjoy those dark rides and make some cool Quests! Have fun and good luck!

Push's Trash Trivia

In the animated classic, Pinocchio, this character played a key role, however in the literary version of this story he didn't make it to the final scene. Who is the character?

Know the answer?

Send your answer in using Contact Us. Be sure to have your VMK registration info with you and select Push's Trash Trivia from the drop down menu.

From the correct answers we randomly select three players as the winners and send them a cool prize. Hurry – only entries submitted by the close of game on Friday will be accepted.

Here's the answer to last weeks Push Trivia question:

This ride still operates at Disneyland but was closed at Walt Disney World in 1998 to make room for The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. What is it?

Answer: Mr. Toad's Wild Ride.

Did you know: Mr. Toads Wild Ride is based on the animated classic The Wind and the Willows, the movie follows the speed-obsessed amphibian J. Thaddeus Toad.

Watch out! J. Thaddeus brings new meaning to loco-motive!

At Disneyland, above the entrance to the attraction (Toad Hall) is the Toad family crest, it reads "Toadi Acceleratio Semper Absurda" – translated it means "Speeding with Toad is always absurd."

Mr. Toad's Wild Ride was one the original Fantasyland attractions that opened with Disneyland in 1955.

Congratulations to the 3 lucky (and randomly picked) players that sent in the correct answer for last week's question!

You've won a limited edition Push Trivia Pin!

Blop

ElPirata

Striker

Top Players

What makes a Guest Room award-worthy?

Guest or Game Rooms that stand out show originality in concept and design. It could be a use of conventional furniture in unconventional ways, the use of a theme or color, or humor.

schreckfan wins top honors this week in the Best Guest Room category.

Game rooms that get the nod offer a new game idea or a new twist on an old favorite. In all rooms we look for room owners who welcome everyone with a smile and show a willingness to answer questions about their room.

Check out this week's Best Guest Rooms and Best Game Rooms.

Best Guest Rooms

Enter if you dare! Schreckfan invites everyone to enter his room, but beware of the pirates – they may try to capture you! Join the fun in The Deadly Pirate Prison.

Best Game Rooms

See if you have what it takes to weather the storm! In Capt. Walrus's game, Over board!, sail through the storm and if you are the last one left you may win a prize!

Best Player Quests

Somewhere over the rainbow you may find a great Quest by LadyRory. Her Rainbow Quest requires no magic or minigames and is fun and easy!

Players who have been previously recognized for their design talents will receive the VIP award.

VMK Cards

The first card from Series 3 is here!

Get the Animation Viewer by playing the Animation Quest at Disneyland or Walt Disney World – redeem the code on your card for this cool virtual prize.

Check out the VMK Rewards Card Checklist and make sure you have all the VMK bling! What cards do you have in your collection?

Scam Alert

DO NOT loan out your items

Even if you think you can really trust another player in VMK, it's not a good idea to loan people your items – since some people won't give them back!

If someone asks you if they can borrow one of your items – just say no. If you decide to trade an item and it isn't given back, we can't help you recover it, because you knowingly entered into the trade. Remember, you're responsible for your character's actions in the game – no matter what.

VMK Email Scam

If you get an email from anyone claiming to be from VMK Player Support asking for your VMK user information, such as your character name, password, birthday, etc., DO NOT REPLY to the email. This is a scam to get your login info.

VMK will NEVER send unsolicited email asking for your password or user information.

The only time you would get an email from VMK regarding this information is if you are having a login problem and have already sent us an email requesting help with this problem through Contact Us link on the website.

''Any email from VMK will include your original email in the reply. Remember your login and password information should never be shared with anyone.''

Safety Corner

Follow the VMK Rules for reporting someone!

Please make sure to follow the VMK Rules when reporting someone. Someone cutting in line or asking you to be their friend is not grounds for reporting. Use the Call for Help system wisely.

VMK Staff need to spend their time helping people are who are seriously in need of assistance. However, if a player keeps doing something to annoy other players (repeating words to fill up the screen, blocking, etc) please use Contact Us on the website to report your issue – don't forget to include the details (the harasser's name and when the event took place) when writing in.

Get Help!

To get emergency help at any time while you're playing the game, simply Call for VMK Staff by clicking on HELP in the bottom right of the game window. VMK Staff will then either send you a message or come and see you.

VMK 911

The Call for VMK Staff option is VMK's 911 service, so please only use it in emergencies – if another Player is hassling you or making you feel uncomfortable. For general questions about the game, take a look at the FAQs.

Using violent language in VMK will get you banned!

If a player in VMK refers to violence and/or a violent act while chatting – report them immediately! VMK does not tolerate violent language of any type. If you or another player are using violent language or threatening other players (even jokingly) YOU WILL GET BANNED, in some cases – PERMANENTLY.

Enter 'pay to play' rooms at your own risk!

In some rooms you must 'pay' the room owner to stay in that room. If you choose to do this, you are doing so at your own risk. Once you 'pay' (credits or give items to the owner) – if you're booted from that room – VMK will NOT be able to get your stuff back. Why? Because you entered the room at your own risk and you (not VMK) are responsible for your actions while in the game.

Quests

In-Park Quests!

PLAY THE DISNEY ANIMATION QUEST!

Play the latest VMK In-Park Quest now at The Magic Kingdom® and Disneyland® - put your knowledge of Disney animated films to the test!

Going to Disneyland® Park or Magic Kingdom® Park? Play the in-Park Quests! Learn more here.

<strong>High School Musical Quest</strong>! Watch the movie, visit the Parks and answer all the questions to win cool stuff!

Get the <strong>Thrill Seekers Ques</strong>t for the Walt Disney World® Resort here!

The Tomorrowland Quest is still available: Download it here.

Contact Us Tips

Problems? Contact Us!

When you use Contact Us to ask a question or report an issue, please be aware of the following:

If you use AOL or EarthLink for e-mail, you won't receive our response, as AOL e-mail filters block our replies. Please provide an alternative e-mail in the Contact Us form where it asks for your e-mail address.

Some Spam Filters will automatically block e-mail from an unknown source unless you tell the program to allow it: To get email from VMK, allow mail from [email protected]. (Please note this email address does not receive e-mail except via the Contact Us form.)