Bumper Stars

Gameplay

Bumper Stars is described as a hybrid of pool and arcade games. While the aiming process is similar to billiards, the resulting character action mimics pinball. The player clicks the Star, drags the mouse to aim, and then releases the Star. The object of the game is for a player’s "Star" (character) to consume as much available food product as possible within three shots, while hitting the "bumpers"(large, round, stationary items on the screen) to earn additional points. Special bumpers add a multiplier to the player’s score when hit. Players looking to maximize scores will try to hit as many special bumpers in a single shot as possible. Bonus points are earned when all special bumpers disappear and when the player clears a level in a single or two shots.

Special bumpers add a multiplier to the player’s score when hit. Players attempting to maximize scores will try to hit as many special bumpers in a single shot as possible. Bonus points are earned when all special bumpers disappear and when the player clears a level in a single or two shots.

Players will earn credits in solo games each time they play (once a day for starting the game) and for achieving a new high score. In challenge games the winner receives credits based on the number of challenge participants.

Game Features

The Store

Each new player begins with default items, including a green arena, basic bumpers, fruit, and the character Bumpy Beaver. Players may add items through purchase in the game’s Store. The Store contains characters, background settings (also referred to as ‘arenas’) bumpers, and food products for use in game. Each player may purchase items with either credits (earned by playing games and winning challenges) or Benjees (a game currency developed by Large Animal Games requiring purchase through a third party).

Achievements

Players are awarded achievements for outstanding game play such as earning a high score or playing challenges. Players are rewarded with credits for earning achievements. Achievements are located in the My Stuff tab or the player information box and are visible to other players once earned.

Leaderboards

Bumper Stars features extensive score keeping between friends and the rest of Bumper Stars players across all social networks the game is published on. Scores are kept based on average score, best score, # of game friends, and credits earned.

Multiplayer

Players have the option of solo play, or issuing challenges to anyone with the application. Challenges can be completed across platforms (i.e. if a player is on Facebook, he or she may challenge other players on MySpace or Bebo).

References

References

1. According to a Facebook update sent to fans on April 20th, 2009.
2. Betancourt, Leah. "10 Highly Addictive Facebook Applications". Allfacebook.
3. "Official Games Selection". IndieCade.
4. Lada, Jenni. "Bumper Stars Bans Boredom". GamerTell.
5. "Bumper Stars". IGN.
6. Cruz, Lena. "Flash Friday: Large Animal on Facebook". Casual Review.
7. Bell, Erin. "Social Saturdays: Bumper Stars". Gamezebo.