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Adware Companies Buying Game Developers

Posted by Zonk on from the no!-anything-but-that! dept.

miller60 writes "At least one Adware company has purchased a game developer, hoping to use game downloads to install advertising software on gamers' computers. 180solutions, which recently received $40 million in venture capital funding, says its purchase of Full Armor Studios is the "first of many gaming relationships the company will forge over the coming months.""

68 comments

  1. This is Crap by I_Love_Pocky! · · Score: 1

    Isn't/Shouldn't adware be illegal? It's garbage software of the worst sort.

    1. Re:This is Crap by Jesrad · · Score: 3, Funny

      Well, yes, it is illegal. Seems we have a winner business strategy here:
      1) invest money in a game studio
      2) cripple the newly acquired asset's value by making its games install adware
      3) go to jail and lose all your money

      --
      Maybe we deserve this world ?
    2. Re:This is Crap by superpulpsicle · · Score: 1

      During custom install, they BETTER let you leave it out.

    3. Re:This is Crap by Donoho · · Score: 1

      You forgot:

      4) Write a tell all book (with rights to made for TV movie)
      5) Profit!

      --
      Michalangelo Progr
    4. Re:This is Crap by ps_inkling · · Score: 3, Informative
      Drive-by downloading of ad-ware is illegal. Installing ad-ware after "acquiring" a "business relationship" with you is perfectly legal. Read your EULAs carefully.

      From what I remember eGames was (and their older releases still are) pulling this type of stunt. If you were using some of the free ISP connectivity, your "spare" CPU time was sold to the highest bidder.

      The illegal act is not notifying the end user of the software and its purpose. As long as you are notified, its legal. (The notice could be similar to the "privacy statements" from financial instutions -- "We value your privacy.... We share only with [highest bidding] business partners your confidential information.")

  2. Spelling nazi by c4thy · · Score: 2, Funny

    Grammer Nazi!!! the word is "grammar". eh?

    --

    i am convinced that "/.ers" are homosexuals and imma make that my "sig"
    1. Re:Spelling nazi by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I guess he's not also a spelling nazi. eh?

    2. Re:Spelling nazi by c4thy · · Score: 0

      im the spelling nazi, didnt you read it in my subject.
      and with all the eh's, we should be spelling/grammar mounties instead.

      --

      i am convinced that "/.ers" are homosexuals and imma make that my "sig"
  3. More spyware, just what we need by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Great, more spyware. I bet the spyware will make the games run so slowly that they suck.

    Melissa

  4. Uh by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Hasn't this been going on for a while?

    1. Re:Uh by spacepimp · · Score: 1

      what is wild tangent if not this? or am i misunderstanding their business model?

  5. I wouldn't worry too much... by sgant · · Score: 4, Insightful

    Very simple...any game that also installs adware on my system doesn't get installed on my system nor does it get bought to put on my system.

    Very easy...

    Their game will fail. No one will buy it. The reviews will be out there and they won't be able to sneak it past us. I mean, come on...do they REALLY think we'll let them get away with this?

    --

    "Leo Fender was in a 'state of grace' when he designed the Stratocaster." -- Paul Reed Smith
    1. Re:I wouldn't worry too much... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 4, Insightful

      Actually, if the game is really good, the morons will still buy it. They are already getting away with this. Kids don't care, because parents don't teach them that ads are bad and the kids must make up their own minds when they buy products.

      Ads are bad because they try to tell you what to think and kids don't know how to think for themselves yet. You have to teach them to think for themselves. Children learn by mimicking others. You must teach them to learn on their own.

    2. Re:I wouldn't worry too much... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I'll deal with it effectively, by dropping all packets to or from the ad server. Problem solved.

    3. Re:I wouldn't worry too much... by tepples · · Score: 3, Informative

      I'll deal with it effectively, by dropping all packets to or from the ad server.

      Error: No response from authentication server. Please make sure you are connected to the Internet before playing this game.

    4. Re:I wouldn't worry too much... by filenabber · · Score: 3, Insightful

      It may be that they are going to give the game away for free (and you get adware for free too)

      --
      Are you a Candy Addict?
    5. Re:I wouldn't worry too much... by I(rispee_I(reme · · Score: 1

      Witness the popularity of Steam.

    6. Re:I wouldn't worry too much... by Ryosen · · Score: 1

      Ads are bad...mmmmkay?

      --

      Ryosen
      One man's "Troll, +1" is another man's "Insightful, +1".
    7. Re:I wouldn't worry too much... by legirons · · Score: 1

      "Very simple...any game that also installs adware on my system doesn't get installed on my system nor does it get bought to put on my system."

      Yet gamers traditionally, are the group who put-up with "copy-protection" features, despite great inconvenience to themselves, and despite such software having occasional destructive effects. Basically, gamers have already shown that they have no need to be fully in control of their own computers.

      We also note that gamers are one of the last groups of software users to staunchly resist any open-source or auditable software, often vociferously arguing the benefits of closed-source games, video-drivers, and operating systems (including the DRM-enabled WindowsXP). Many gamers on slashdot are vocally in opposition to those who use open-source software on their computers, the best example being in any "nVidia/xfree86 driver" debate. So again, gamers have shown that they have no interest in verifying the trustworthiness of software which runs on their computer.

      Can you really say straightfaced, that gamers are likely to oppose some new form of malware? It would seem very uncharacteristic of them.

    8. Re:I wouldn't worry too much... by Trackster · · Score: 1

      Heh? Kids don't know how to think for themselves yet? How about adults, are they supposed to be fully in control or something?

    9. Re:I wouldn't worry too much... by stanmann · · Score: 1

      Odd, I'm running adware on my computer, Oh, it's embedded in Eudora, and I don't look at the ads, but they are there. And Eudora with ads is free for all features. Why is adware bad?? Would you accept a 2 inch adbar at the top or bottom of your screen in exchange for free MMORPG of the month(SWG, EQ1/EQ2, AO, DAOC)?

      --
      Food not Bombs is a nice platitude but it breaks down when you notice that the Bombees are usually well fed
  6. uhmmmm.... by omibus · · Score: 2, Interesting

    AAAAAAUUUUUUGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!

    Mandatory Penuts reference needed.

    How about the game companies teaming up with Search & Destroy and Ad-aware. Actually do something usefully with the 2 gig of space they are using on my harddrive.

    "Congradulations: you have 23 kills and we removed 3 spyware applications for you"

    --
    Bad User. No biscuit!
    1. Re:uhmmmm.... by Donoho · · Score: 1

      Could always release a sequel to this game. Title it, Spyware: The Game

      --
      Michalangelo Progr
    2. Re:uhmmmm.... by mrseigen · · Score: 1

      I want to go write this so much. Although, I run OS X and Linux and don't have access to any source code or apps that will actually search for spyware.

      Perhaps the OS X and Linux version will let you kill root kits and script kiddie ping sweeps.

  7. howd they do that ? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    buying purchased ?

  8. Huh? by jkujawa · · Score: 2, Funny

    "...has buying purchased a game developer..."

    Huh? WHAT? THAT'S NOT EVEN ENGLISH. NOT REMOTELY.
    What do slashdot editors do? It's clear that "editing" isn't part of the job description.

    1. Re:Huh? by charlesbakerharris · · Score: 0, Redundant
      ...has buying purchased a game developer..."

      This company has no chance to survive make its time.

    2. Re:Huh? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      "...and from the realms of the nethereye, the grammar troll strikes again!"

  9. Its just like the Sims 2 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 3, Insightful

    Its just like games like the Sims2 where even well known publishers know that spyware means profit, so are jumping on this bandwagon.

    Technological solution: A VMWare-like interface to install newer games that do this junk, so the game runs in its own jail, although this kills performance.

    1. Re:Its just like the Sims 2 by cloudmaster · · Score: 1

      Kills performance? You mean something like, say, chroot? That doesn't seem to kill performance on any of the high-load server software that I've ever run chrooted. Anyway, the only thing that suffers in VMWare is video performance - a little - because the software and whatnot runs at darn near native speed. A Win32 equiv. of chroot would probably be better for this kind of thing, anyway.

  10. What if... by Reo+Strong · · Score: 1

    they give you a choice durring install? If they do give me a choice, I'm all for it as long as it puts out better games... if not, isn't it illegal (or possible that it will become illegal, I'm unsure of the wording in the bill before congress)

    I guess they could always claim that you purchased the product and therefor give consent to load you computer up with adware... Just think, now instead of being bad becasue they pirate software, the pirates will be heroes for weeding out the adware integrated into the games...

    I do wonder about if they are just buying it for ingame adverts tho, which is a whole other ball of wax...

    --
    "Never attribute to malice that which can be adequately explained by stupidity." -Anon.
    1. Re:What if... by eXtro · · Score: 1

      They don't have to give you a choice, they only have to warn you (in microscopic text) in the shrinkwrap.

      --

      Chris Kuivenhoven is a thief, beware

    2. Re:What if... by rts008 · · Score: 1

      180Solutions give you a choice? Forget about it. The only choice you will have to not get the adware will be to not install the game. My past experience with 180Solutions was almost as frustrating as Gator. I don't see them changing ethics that much.

      --
      Down With Slashdot BETA!!! I've been around the corner and seen the oliphant; you can only abuse me from your perspecti
  11. Unpossible! by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1, Funny

    Whoever has writing composed the article not does understand English.

  12. The real question... by Chrontius · · Score: 4, Interesting

    is whether the game will still work when you strip out the spyware.

    Also, will using AdAware be enough to get these slimes to invoke the DMCA? "Circumventing access controls" and all that?

    And if they do, could they succeed?

    1. Re:The real question... by legirons · · Score: 2, Insightful

      "Also, will using AdAware be enough to get these slimes to invoke the DMCA? "Circumventing access controls" and all that? And if they do, could they succeed?

      If you think that's a problem, simply sue them for circumventing the access controls [adaware] to copy copyrighted material [your personal details] on your computer. What's good for the goose is good for the gander, and in this case, the game developers are behaving significantly more illegally than you are.

      Don't bother with funny mods here, this is how the law is supposed to work, and those who crack your computer to "steal" from you are in the wrong, EULA or no.

    2. Re:The real question... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      That's your problem. I don't live in a corrupt police state, myself.

  13. Not the end all by pat_trick · · Score: 2, Informative

    Have you looked at http://www.fullarmorstudios.com/ at all?

    None of those games look like something I'd want to play anyway. I think we're safe from any of the huge game companies falling into this situation.

    As for Full Armor Studios...well, I think I just heard their profits choke and die.

    And the company to look out for is Zango, according to this press release: http://www.fullarmorstudios.com/news/180solutionsA cquiresFullArmorStudios.pdf

    1. Re:Not the end all by jackbird · · Score: 1
      "watch out for Mr. Teeth...he'll crash the whole party!"

      'nuff said.

    2. Re:Not the end all by Donoho · · Score: 1


      Dude, how could you not mention the "Super-fun sound effects"

      --
      Michalangelo Progr
    3. Re:Not the end all by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Sort Countless Books!

      Whee!

    4. Re:Not the end all by arose · · Score: 1

      Who wouldn't want to?

      --
      Analogies don't equal equalities, they are merely somewhat analogous.
  14. Total crap by igzat · · Score: 0

    Last thing people want is to buy their favorite game and have a ton of spy-ware installed on their comps. The first company who does this, I hope their game totally bombs.

    --

    Free Desk

  15. Geared to the gullible consumers... by jangobongo · · Score: 4, Insightful

    Looking at the games listed at the Full Armor website, I'd have to say that the adware companies are taking advantage of the most gullible consumers: children. Granted, $20 is kinda steep for these games, but if the adware is bundled with the "free" demos...

    Kids are not so picky about whether or not sneaky programs slide into their computers via these "trojans". They won't read the user agreements, just click the buttons to get to the game faster. It's the same thing that happens with the free screensavers. The kids just go for the "fun" or the "cool" factor and don't realize that there is a price.

    --

    Sig cancelled due to lack of interest
    1. Re:Geared to the gullible consumers... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      s/children/Christians/g

      HAHAH. "The Walls of Jericho", indeed.

    2. Re:Geared to the gullible consumers... by dR.fuZZo · · Score: 1

      Kids are not so picky about whether or not sneaky programs slide into their computers via these "trojans". They won't read the user agreements, just click the buttons to get to the game faster.

      As opposed to adults, who read through every end user license agreement closely, consulting their attorney as necessary.

      --
      -- dR.fuZZo
    3. Re:Geared to the gullible consumers... by Lord_Dweomer · · Score: 1
      "Kids are not so picky about whether or not sneaky programs slide into their computers via these "trojans". They won't read the user agreements, just click the buttons to get to the game faster."

      That brings up an interesting question. These kids would not be legally able to become bound to a contract such as a user agreement. Is there any law that can be used in this instance to attack this company for this?

      --
      Buy Steampunk Clothing Online!
    4. Re:Geared to the gullible consumers... by rts008 · · Score: 1

      That IS a very interesting question indeed. This may be an interesting path to pursue in letting our respective lawmakers know what we want or don't want. Thanks for the new perspective!

      --
      Down With Slashdot BETA!!! I've been around the corner and seen the oliphant; you can only abuse me from your perspecti
  16. The games sound TERRIBLE. by hai.uchida · · Score: 2, Interesting

    Some of the games the company offers:

    "Library of the Ages is a puzzle game of sorting ancient books before time runs out. Listen to masterpieces of classical music and take in the top-notch rendered graphics as you play, but beware: the pace quickens as your candle burns away."

    That sounds like work, not entertainment...

    "Welcome to the world of Manna Munchers! It's all about chowin' down and powerin' up! Meet Chuck. He likes to eat. Help him eat as much food as he can, but watch out for Mr. Teeth...he'll crash the whole party!"

    And the sleaziest move of all, if there really is spy/adware attached:

    "Want more games?
    Our parter, Games4Good, offers top games that are safe and fun for the whole family. They donate $1 to charity for every game you purchase. "

    --
    my password is private, but unchanged.
  17. mod parent up by muel · · Score: 3, Insightful

    Parent hit upon the whole point of this business deal, because that's the target market this company is shooting for - idiots who will foolishly click "yes" to install a "free" product and wind up with adware galore. There are still plenty of people who assume they use computers safely only because they "don't open attachments in email." That's a lucrative market for marketing companies, like it or not.

  18. similar games to wild tangent? by hopemafia · · Score: 3, Insightful

    They weren't adware...but still damn annoying...came preinstalled on my laptop, and using the "uninstall" option didn't really uninstall, as Ad-aware was needed to clean it out.

    In any case, the types of games involved aren't going to be played by computer gamers on /., even if there wasn't adware attached. These companies are aiming for the non-computer savy (and cheap) people out there, who play low quality "free" online games and couldn't tell adware from from underwear.

    --
    If God had had a computer it would have taken him 7 months to create the earth...if he even bothered to do it at all.
    1. Re:similar games to wild tangent? by cgenman · · Score: 1

      While Wild Tangent traditionally contained spyware, not adware, I have seen Wild Tangent installations that were responsible for pop-up ads on people's computers.

      I think it's safe to put them firmly in the slime-lower-than-dirt category.

      --
      The ______ Agenda
  19. Vote with your dollars... by Gailin · · Score: 2
    Just remember the name of the studio:

    Full Armor Studios

    When you see a game that is produced by them, do not purchase it. There are too many game companies putting out great games that are failing. I do not believe a company putting out a corrupt product will last very long. It will take care of itself in time.

    Gailin

    --
    I wish there was a fscking blue pill
  20. This might work... by copykit · · Score: 2, Insightful

    ... for kid's games, online gambling, and other games that not-so-tech-savvy people will play. I can't see Doom 4 including pop-ups or adware. It's sad that marketing has been reduced to a dog-eat-dog race for saturation. They're just going off of the pure statistical likelyhood that X% will click an ad. How about making a decent product/service that I actually want?!?!?!?!?

    --
    kitm
  21. What spyware is in The Sims 2? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1, Interesting
  22. hands off by ColonBlow · · Score: 1

    The adware may help pay the bills for the site or developer, but critics and security professionals say it comes at a cost to users, especially teen and pre-teen gamers who may not understand what is being installed and what it will do. Zango users, for example, need to read the entire FAQ to learn that "removing Zango may cripple software applications you enjoy and use everyday."

    Why would it ever need to make other applications unstable? If it's using shared resources, would it really delete it or even be able to? This seems very strange to me. Maybe even shady. Not that adware isn't shady enough.

    --
    free online diet tracking.
  23. religous angle by kisrael · · Score: 3, Interesting

    Huh. Actually, it looks like "Full Armor" is one of those "sneak in bible lessons" kind of places..."Full Armor" is probably a biblical reference to the "Full Armor of God": Ephesians 6:10-18, "Manna" is a biblical miracle food, etc. I'm not going to download anythin further to confirm that.

    Most ironic, from their Company Info Page:
    Our beliefs? They're simple!: quality, trust, respect, integrity and the golden rule.

    I'd say they're about 0 for 5 there.

    --
    SO YOU'RE GOING TO DIE: The Comic for Dealing with Death
    1. Re:religous angle by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I take it that the golden rule is "Spout as much bullshit as possible."

  24. Who came up with this idea? by admanb · · Score: 1

    Buying -failing- game developers? So they can make really really really bad games, that just happen to install adware.

    Brain... hurts...

    How dumb do they think people are?

    --
    Adam
    1. Re:Who came up with this idea? by arose · · Score: 1

      You need to sort more books...

      --
      Analogies don't equal equalities, they are merely somewhat analogous.
  25. What a by TheBot · · Score: 1

    bunch of tools Full Armor Studios are! Come on now, who in their right mind is going to install adware while installing the game? Adware can be spam, and spam is illegal. It's too bad thought that companies have gotten in-game advertising. Realistic or not, it doesn't need to be there in my games!

    --
    Flat Screen TV for F
  26. This is legal by nurb432 · · Score: 1

    When you agree to the AUP as you install, down in the fine print you will authorize them to install 'helper applications'...

    Yes its a load of garbage, but it will be legal.

    --
    ---- Booth was a patriot ----
  27. I recognize those games by Mechaniork · · Score: 1

    Those are... Christian games. In fact, I'd wager that "Fullarmorstudios" refers to "The full armor of God", which is a Biblical reference I'm not going to dig up because I'm Pagan now. Look at it, games like "The Walls of Jericho" and "Manna Munchers", I think they're trying for 'good', 'clean', and 'wholesome' games while also trying to avoid getting pegged as a Christian game studio. Those are the kind of games I saw in Christian bookstores when I was growing up for $40. Here's hoping they'll fail miserably.

    --
    ~~"How can you have a war on Terror? It's not even a noun!" -Jon Stewart~~
  28. Uneasy analogy by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0
    its purchase of Full Armor Studios is the "first of many gaming relationships the company will forge over the coming months.""

    When I read this, the first image that popped into my head was of a date rapist first buying his date dinner.

    I think that you can take it from there.