Newsletter 11 February 2008
From Disneys Online Worlds Guide (Wiki)
Yavn Speaks!
From 15 February 2008
Materializing right in front of your eyes for a Special President's Day Weekend Edition of Yavn Speaks – it's the Master of Magic, Yavn!
Hocus Pocus! Alaka – well hello, you caught me right in the middle of a magic trick.
I'm trying to conjure up some new additions to the Kingdom – one in particular that's coming in March that's gonna blow your socks off. But before I get into that, I wanted to take a minute and talk about some of the latest stuff and the stuff coming up.
Shrunken Ned's Shop Specials
You probably noticed our latest addition to the Newsletter? If not be sure to check out our buddy Shrunken Ned, who is now in charge of keeping you up to date on the latest shop releases.
Ned's got a nose for news and a real head for hot fashion. Although, I'm still curious how he writes that column when he can't reach a keyboard... Anyway, Ned's going to be giving you the 411 on what's happening in our shops. But one of the reasons I wanted to roll a Yavn Speaks before President's Day Weekend was because of an event in Shrunken Ned's Shop you're gonna want to make plans to check out.
Shrunken Ned really has a head for bargains!
This coming Monday, February 18, President's Day, Shrunken Ned will have a sale – what kind of sale? Well, honestly I think he's lost his head, because everything in his shop will be half off! You read that right. Everything for one day only, is HALF OFF!
Not only will Shrunken Ned be discounting stuff in the shop, but bringing some stuff out of the stock room for this very special event! For new players here's your chance to pick up some stuff you may have missed before, and for all our players, it's your chance to grab some great deals! I've seen what he's planning and you're gonna love it! So if you haven't already, get to playing those games and earning credits!
New and Familiar Faces
Shrunken Ned's not the only one who's got a new section. You've also probably seen who took over our trivia section? That's right the all-knowing Esmeralda! (A few of you called this one!) She's perfect for the trivia section because, well, Esmeralda is there anything you don't know?
You'll be seeing a lot more of her and those great prizes she's been giving away so be sure and brush up on your Disney trivia!
While we're on the subject of new sections and faces, I'd like to take a second and introduce a friend of mine, fellow VMK'ers, meet PirateVinnie:
Now here's a guy who lives a pirate's life – PirateVinnie!
PirateVinnie's been working closely on lots of the new stuff you've seen recently released, like the Gingerbread pieces that came out over the holiday and Magic Shop Checkers game. But he was working behind the scenes at VMK for a while before that, on the website, with the in-Park locations and our in-game HOST and events teams.
Vinnie and I go way back, but he's been on the VMK team for almost two years now and he's been like my right hand man the whole time, helping me out. So look for him to take the spotlight a little more in the weeks ahead. In fact, don't be surprised if you see his own section here in the Newsletter very soon. If you see him in game, say hello!
Best Game Rooms
You gonna see us doing some things a little differently than we have in the past – like our Theme Parks, we're always looking at how we can make things better here in the Virtual Magic Kingdom. (For instance, we chose not to do a Valentine's Day Pin this year and spend that time working on something else we think you'll agree is much, much cooler – more on that in March.)
One thing you'll see soon are sweeter and more unique rewards for Best Game Rooms. You've probably seen how we've reworked the Awards and Top Players page, and we're reworking the rewards for those room builders too! I'll have more info about this in the next few weeks so stay tuned.
Congratulations iamabigdisfan! Your Heart to Heart room is our pick for next week's Best Guest Room. Watch for the rest of the winners on Monday!
One last note about those Best game Rooms – if you're room hasn't been chosen yet, don't give up! We're working on other ways you can get your room noticed, but until then, our HOST and in-game staff will be on the lookout for great rooms, so keep submitting and keep building!
President's Day Announcements
Alright, before I disappear, I hope you enjoyed this special edition of Yavn Speaks. I know there's not too much new information in here, but I wanted to give a proper introduction to some of those new sections and faces you'll be seeing, talk about our President's Day events – and drop a few hints about upcoming stuff.
But be sure to join us President's Day for Shrunken Ned's Presidents Day Sale and – I almost forgot – a new Presidential Quest that will truly "reward" you for your efforts! (Trust me, don't miss this, because this Quest is really gonna pay off for you!) Oh yes, we've got some AWESOME NEW magic items releasing this weekend – but Shrunken Ned will tell you all about that.
Until next time, Higitus Figitus, Alakazam! (POOF!) Waitaminute, that's not a rabbit. Hey Yeti! I think I found that Turkey Leg you were munching on last week...
See you in the game! Yavn
Esmeralda's Trivia
Test Your Knowledge of Disney Trivia!
Introducing the prophet of wisdom, the knower of all things and Disney trivia expert – Esmeralda!
This Disney animated classic featured a wizard named Merlin. What's the movie?
Know the answer?
Send your answer in using Contact Us. Be sure to have your VMK registration info with you and select Esmeralda Trivia from the drop down menu.
IMPORTANT: If you do not submit your answer by using the 'Esmeralda's Trivia' option in Contact Us your answer WILL NOT be considered.*
Trivia winners receive the Esmeralda Trivia Pin.
From the correct answers submitted using the Esmeralda's Trivia option, we randomly select three players as the winners and send them specially selected prizes that vary from week to week.
This week's prizes include:
Invisibility Magic (Single Use)
Red Surprise Gift
Last week's question:
Which feature film did Sorcerer Mickey first appear in?
Answer: Fantasia
A film of several first, Fantasia was the first feature film to be shown in multi-channel sound. It was also the first feature film to showcase a "modern" Mickey – animator Fred Moore redesigned Mickey for the film, giving him more human-like features. Finally, Fantasia is also thought to be the first American feature film released that had no opening credits.
Did you know: Composer Igor Stravinsky offered to compose an entirely new piece of music for Walt Disney when Stravinsky was contacted about the music rights for "The Rite of Spring." "The Rite of Spring" sequence from Fantasia inspired the "Primeval World" diorama featured on the Disneyland Railroad.
In a nod to Walt Disney, Mickey's master, the Sorcerer was nicknamed Yen Sid by Disney animators. Yen Sid is "Disney" spelled backwards.
The Sorcerer's raised eyebrow was a look animators copied from their boss, Walt Disney.
Winners:
Amberama
justluke
tomorrowkid
* Only entries submitted by using the Esmeralda's Trivia option in Contact Us and sent by close of game on Friday will be accepted.
Ned's Shop News
From 15 February 2008
Go Shopping with Shrunken Ned
Attention shoppers! It's your old pal Shrunken Ned here with the latest shop news! We've got lots of jolly good sales this weekend. Be sure to check them out!
Featured New Items
This week we've got some very magical items releasing in the Main Street Magic Shop. Check out those Tower of Terror items! Including the Elevator Teleporter and Starry Carpet! Talk about putting yourself in another dimension!
Presidents Day Sale!
Attention shoppers! On Presidents Day everything in Shrunken Ned's Shop is HALF OFF! That's right, ALL the items in my shop will be half off on Presidents Day!
We're clearing out some seasonal stuff to make room for Spring, plus you'll see some special items I'm bringing out of the stock room just for this special day! So make plans to visit me Monday February 18, 2008 when everything in my shop is HALF OFF!
This is a ONE DAY ONLY event!
Check out these new items:
Dancing Inferno Magic *
(Single Use)
Maleficent Hat *
Tower of Terror Elevator Teleporter *
Tower of Terror Starry Carpet *
Magic Show Top Hat Chair Blue *
Magic Show Block B *
Magic Show Carpet Corner *
* Items will be available starting 2/16/08.
Main Street Magic Shop:
Invisibility Magic *
(Single Use)
Fireworks Magic *
(Single Use)
Magic Show Carpet Center *
Magic Show Carpet Edge *
Magic Show Top Hat Chair Blue *
Magic Show Block B *
Chinese New Year
Celebrate Chinese New Year by decorating your room with these items available in Emporium - Specials!
Hong Kong Disneyland Paper Lantern *
(Available in Magenta)
Hong Kong Disneyland Ship Chair *
(Available in Magenta)
Hong Kong Disneyland Pin *
Hong Kong Disneyland Poster *
* Items will be released in game on 2/9/08
Also available in: Main Street Magic Shop
Magician's Outfit
(Hat, shirt and pants – each item
sold separately.)
Magic Show Multicolor Curtain Divider
Magic Show Stage Curtain
Main Street Magic Shop Table
Haunted Mansion Top Hat
Magic Show Block A
Sorcerer Mickey Hat
PhilharMagic Chair Green
Teleportation Magic (Single Use)'
Cursed Storm Magic (Single Use)
Confetti Magic
(Single & Unlimited Use)
Snowman Magic
(Single & Unlimited Use)
Levitation Magic
(Single & Unlimited Use)
Turn into Bat Magic
(Single & Unlimited Use)
Scam Alert
Earn Stuff Honestly
Using ANY hacking, scripting or editing program that modifies VMK, changes the game or generates codes from our mini-games is against VMK Values and will result in a permanent ban of your VMK account. This is a serious violation of the VMK Values.
If you are found to be involved in this type of activity, we will place a ban on your account (and computer) that will keep you and anyone in your family from playing the game – forever.
THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS !
You're not just hurting yourself – but your actions will affect other players on the same computer. What should you do to make sure you're not banned? Don't use ANY programs that generate codes and don't use any codes that you haven't earned yourself by playing our games.
Protect Your Personal Info!
VMK Staff will never ask you for your password or initiate contact with a player outside of the game, so don't respond to any individual posing as a VMK Staff member in e-mail or on a message board.
Many times scammers posing as VMK Staff will promise special access or an invitation to a special program in exchange for a player's login information. Be smart and don't fall prey to these foul villains! VMK will only contact you if you've sent in an inquiry through Contact Us.
We take scamming very seriously, and anyone caught attempting to scam a player through impersonation of a VMK Staff member in order to exploit a player will have all their accounts banned permanently from VMK.
Scamming = Theft!
Scamming is equal to theft and a violation of the VMK Values. If you scam someone in VMK, this will lead to your account being automatically and permanently banned. Having your parents send in a request using Contact Us to get your account re-activated won't work, because if you can't play by the rules and follow the VMK Values, we don't want you in the game.
Don't let yourself get scammed. As the old saying goes, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don't "loan" your stuff and if a room owner refuses to show you their "Cute or Boot" prize or rare item, or you feel they don't really have the prize, leave the room. There are lots of other games to play and things to do in VMK!
Staff Impersonation is NEVER allowed!
Impersonating VMK Staff is never allowed in VMK. If a player says they are VMK Staff, make sure they're wearing the orange Mickey Pin and wearing either red (for Staff or HOST) or blue (for QA) Mickey ears.
Remember, VMK Staff will never ask you to trade any items.
You can always spot STAFF and HOSTS because they wear red Mickey ears.
VMK Staff will always wear the orange Mickey Pin.
You can identify a Community Leader by the 'CL_' at the beginning of their name and their blue wizard hat pin.
Beware of "Free Rooms".
Some VMK players advertise their rooms as "free," but when you enter them, they force you to pay (credits or items) or get booted from the room. Beware, these types of rooms are against the VMK Values and report players who engage in this kind of activity.
Got more questions about scamming? Read the FAQs page!
Safety Corner
VMK Safety & Security
Remember to review the VMK Values and game guidelines. New rules include that Pay to Play rooms are no longer allowed. As always, violence or inappropriate subject matter of adult nature will NOT be tolerated and involvement in this activity will result in a ban of your VMK account.
VMK is NO place for negative behavior. Have fun, make friends, play games and chat, but please keep in mind VMK must always be a safe and appropriate place for Players of ALL ages.
Please help keep VMK just like the Disney Theme Parks - a safe, fun and magical place for everyone!
Respect other players. Scams (theft), violence, giving out personal information or discussing adult content (sexual or otherwise), vulgarity or inappropiate behavior have NO place in VMK.
Help Is Always Available
The VMK 'Call For Help' button is easy to use and always accessible – just click on the HELP button on the lower right of the VMK player window. At VMK we encourage you to let us know if anything unsafe or suspicious catches your attention. If it's not in line with VMK Values, please report it immediately!
Tip: Remember the 'Call For Help' is like VMK's 911. So while we encourage you to use it, please only do so for serious player issues. And like 911, using 'Call For Help' to report false information will get you in trouble too, so make sure you're reporting the incident or player accurately.
If you do have a serious problem, tell us immediately! The faster you use the 'Call For Help' button to make us aware of a problem, the more effective we can be in taking care of the issue. So please, tell us immediately if you have a serious problem and help make VMK a fun and safe place for everyone.
Don't Dictionary Dance
The VMK Dictionary is in place for a reason. If you "dance" around the dictionary to say something you shouldn't, you could get banned.
Bad words have no place in VMK and neither do words that sound or read like bad words (but are spelled differently). The VMK Dictionary will never allow players to use bad words. "Dancing" around the VMK Dictionary to use bad words (or words that aren't in the dictionary) in chat could get you banned.
Trading Card 101
Deal Yourself In!
The ALL NEW VMK Trading Card Game is now available! Play a Basic version of the game now!
Check out the VMK Arcade to play now!
Get In The Game!
VMK Trading Card Game: Basic is a simple card game of strategy that you could compare to Rock, Paper, Scissors. The basic goal is to get 10 points before your opponent does. Players are awarded a point for each turn they win.
Play against the computer in the fast paced game of strategy! Got questions about VMKTG:Basic– We've got answers, check out the FAQ here.
Dateline Disney
February 15
1950: Cinderella is released in theaters.
Cinderella was the Disney Studio's 12th animated feature film. The movie was an instant hit at the box office and has since gone on to become one of Disney's most beloved fairytales of all time.
2002: Richard W. Cook is promoted to Chairman of the Walt Disney Studios.
Richard began his storybook career with Disney in 1970 as a ride operator at Disneyland Park. He went on to work at the Disney Studios in Burbank where he rose through the ranks and would eventually be promoted to Chairman.
He is in charge of various aspects at Walt Disney Studios, which include developing and marketing of all films released by Walt Disney Pictures, Touchstone Pictures, and Hollywood Pictures.
February 4
1938: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is released in theaters.
The first animated feature film to be released by Walt Disney and the first animated feature to be released in Technicolor.
Despite critics at the time that discounted the significance of the film (as it was an animated feature), Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs became an instant success and a timeless classic. Ultimately Snow White would pave the way for the future of animated films.
In 2008 the film celebrates it's 70th anniversary. A tribute to the film, "The Fairest One of All" can be seen at Disney's California Adventure in the Disney Animation attraction located in the Hollywood Pictures Backlot area.
January 24
1993: Mickey's Toontown opens at Disneyland Park in California.
The land features Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin, Mickey and Minnie's home away from Disneyland and cartoon buildings and gags that encourage Park Guest to get animated and have fun!
2000: The Walt Disney Company names Robert Iger as its president and chief operating officer. Prior to that, Iger served as president for both ABC and Walt Disney International. Robert replaced longtime CEO, Michael Eisner in 2005.
2006: Pixar Animation Studios becomes a part of the Walt Disney Company. Pixar, responsible for such classics as Toy Story joins the Walt Disney Company in a deal that brings the two partners together as one.
January 10
1930: Roy E. Disney is born. He is the son of Roy Oliver Disney, Walt Disney's brother. He began his career with the Walt Disney Company as an assistant director in 1954 working on the True Life Adventure films. Roy continued as a writer, director and producer until he was elected to the Board of Directors in 1967. He was inducted as a Disney Legend in 1998. Roy was instrumental in getting Fantasia 2000 made in 1999.
Today Roy E. Disney serves as a consultant to the Walt Disney Company and is Director Emeritus for the Board of Directors.
December 5
1901: Born Walter Elias Disney, Walt Disney is born in Chicago, Illinois. While Walt spent most of his childhood in Marceline, Missori, he would eventually move to Los Angeles, California to break into show business. After being turned away by most major studios, he strikes out on his own and forms Walt Disney Studios.
Walt introduces the world to his concept for an Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, an idea that will later become EPCOT.
Walt will create Mickey Mouse and with his team of animators, lead the charge for the Golden Age of Animation, during which time such classics as Snow White and the Seven Drawfs, Pinocchio and Dumbo are produced.
Walt will go on to develop an idea called 'Disneyland' into a theme park business that is loved by people the world over and continue to innovate in every aspect of entertainment.
November 26
2003: The second live action feature film based on a Disneyland attraction, The Haunted Mansion is released. The movie stars Eddie Murphy as Jim Evers, he plays a real estate agent who sees an opportunity to make a tidy commision selling the mansion but finds out those "Grim Grinning Ghost" have other plans!
The singing bust in The Hanuted Mansion movie are voiced by The Dapper Dans, the barbershop quartet that performs on Mainstreet USA at Disneyland.
1997: Flubber starring Robin Williams is released. The film is a re-make of the 1961 Disney classic The Absent Minded Professor starring Disney Legend Fred MacMurray.
1987: Tokyo Disneyland welcomes its 50-millionth guest!
November 25
1992: Aladdin is released. The film features Robin Williams as the voice of the Genie and Gilbert Gottfried as the voice of Iago the Parrot.
During the film Genie appears in over 50 different disguises including, a Scotsman, a dragon, a flight attendant, a zombie, Arnold Schwarzenegger and a tourist with a Goofy hat.
November 13
1940: Fantasia is released! The first major movie released in the United States with sterophonic sound, Fantasia set a new standard for the cinematic experience.
Chernabog's, magical brooms and dinosaurs – oh my!
It was not only the first feature film to be shown in multichannel sound, it was the first Disney animated film in which Walt Disney allowed his artist to use whatever colors they wanted. In addition to such classics as "Night on Bald Mountain" and "Rite of Spring" Fantasia also features a more modern looking Mickey Mouse in "The Sorcerer's Apprentice."
October 22
1993: Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas is released. The film features the music of composer Danny Elfman who also lends his singing voice to the main character, Jack Skellington.
October 5
1949: The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad, Disney's 11th animated feature film is released. The film features the voices of Bing Crosby (who narrates Washington Irving's The Legend of Sleepy Hollow) and Basil Rathbone (who narrates Kenneth Grahame's tale The Wind in the Willows).
October 1
1982: EPCOT, the second Park to be built at the Walt Disney World Resort opens to the public.
Spaceship Earth during the opening ceremonies.
Balloons and doves are released in a massive grand opening ceremony that features "The World Showcase March," a song written by the Sherman Brothers, exclusively for this occasion.
1971: The Magic Kingdom opens at Walt Disney World, it is the first Park to open at the Walt Disney World Resort. Walt Disney's brother, Roy Disney gives the dedication:
"Walt Disney World is a tribute to the philosophy and life of Walter Elias Disney... and to the talents, the dedication, and the loyalty of the entire Disney organization that made Walt Disney's dream come true. May Walt Disney World bring joy and inspiration and new knowledge to all who come to this happy place... a Magic Kingdom where the young at heart of all ages can laugh and play and learn - together."
Yeti's Tips & Tricks
You've got questions, Yeti has answers.
From 9 February 2008
The Red Surprise Gift is back for a limited time! Buy it in Emporium Specials.
Mr. Yeti, how do I create a message for my gift?
First, double-click the gift. You'll see a window pop up on screen that will allow you to pick from 1 to 4 different background layouts. Now pick your background. After you've done that, enter a message title. Now, enter the message.
Messages use words from the VMK Dictionary, so if you can't use the word in game, you won't be able to use it in your message. Blank messages cannot be saved and after the message has been saved it cannot be changed.
Okay, I've created my message for my gift. How do I give the gift to someone?
There are several ways that you can give your gift to a friend. Once, you've created your message and prepared the gift, you can trade the gift to someone or you can place it in thier room. However, once a gift is traded or placed in a room you can't get it back (unless it's traded back to you) or pick it up again. You could also award a gift in a Quest that you have made.
Just like real gift giving, you can just give the gift without expecting something in return.
Mr. Yeti, someone gave me a gift. How do I open it?
To open a gift, once it's placed in a room simply double-click the Surprise Gift to open it. Out will pop one of your favorite characters with a custom message. After about a minute the character will return to the gift box. And don't worry, after the item has been opened, you get to keep it. It will not disappear from your room or inventory.
From 23 January 2007
Mr. Yeti, I hear there's a new game called Magic Shop Checkers – can you tell me more about it?
Why certainly! Magic Shop Checkers is VMK's version of Checkers, but we added a special ingredient – Magic! Now the game features special powers like Magic Hats and Magic Tricks. You are gonna love it!
Checkers! Magic! Oh my!
Where can I find the game?
Just click the VMK World Map, go to Main Street and you'll see the Main Street Magic Shop just a few steps away from the entrance to Tomorrowland, right there on Main Street!
Once inside the Magic Shop walk to the Gamerooms in the back of the Shop to play Magic Shop Checkers.
Can you tell me more about these Checkers Magic Tricks?
Magic Shop Checkers Tricks are special moves that you can use to win the game! Use the tricks carefully though, you can only use 8 Magic Tricks per game! Buy Magic Shop Checkers Magic Tricks in the Magic Shop, just remember to use the tricks during a game of Checkers you have to buy them before you start playing.
What Checkers Magic Tricks are available?
You want to learn all the tricks? Ugh, it's so hard for me to keep a secret...
OK, there are currently two Magic Shop Checkers Magic Tricks:
Levitation
When you use this trick you can jump two of your opponent's checkers on the same jump. How cool is that?
Sleight of Hand
This trick lets you swap places with your opponent when one their checkers is next to yours. Use the trick to get yourself out of a tight corner!
What is a Magic Hat Checker?
Magic Hats are what "kings" are called in Magic Shop Checkers. Kings are the only pieces that can move forward and backwards. Magic Hats can do the same thing, but they get TWO separate moves per turn. Think of the possibilities!
A Magic Hat
Magic Hats can:
- Move two squares (so long as they don't return to the square they left from).
- Move one square and jump (including multiple jumps).
- Jump (including multiple jumps) and then move.
- Not use Magic Tricks.
Mr. Yeti, can you explain the High Scores?
High Scores rank VMK Magic Shop Checkers players. Your level is calculated like this: we take the number of new players against whom you have won a game and give you a point. In other words, each pair of players plays for 1 possible point. The winner of the game played between these players wins the point.
Once you have won a game of Magic Shop Checkers against someone, winning future games against the same opponent won't increase your level. You must play and win against new opponents to increase your level. If you lose to someone who won the point in a previous game, they keep the point.
So any secrets or tips on winning?
Absolutely! I've schooled Yavn on more games than I can count. Here's now are the Yeti's top tips:
1. Practice. The more you play, the more ways you'll find to win, practicing will also help you develop strategies to use against other players.
2. Wait. Try not to use Checkers Magic Tricks too quickly – remember you're only allowed to use 8 Magic Shop Magic Tricks per game. Also try and have a few Checkers Magic Tricks in your back pocket in case of an emergency. For example, if your opponent has you trapped in a corner, you could use Magic.
3. Give 'em one occasionally. Don't be afraid to lose a few checkers. Experienced players will often sacrifice a checker in order to set up their opponent. If you lose one of your checkers but capture two of your opponent's checkers in return, that is a good thing.
Good Luck!
Your pal, Yeti
Top 5 FAQs
VMK's Top 5 Frequently Asked Questions for the week
For more answers to other Frequently Asked Questions, please visit the VMK FAQs.
1. Why can't I tell my friends in VMK what grade I just started in school or give other personal information about myself?
Starting any grade is a huge accomplishment and from everyone at VMK, CONGRATULATIONS! But part of keeping VMK safe means keeping your personal information to yourself.
Nobody should ever know where you live, how old you are, or even what grade you are in. IT DOESN'T MATTER if you know the person outside of the game – it is against the VMK Values to give out ANY personal information. (This includes if you're home alone from school, or the state where you live.) You will get banned for doing this.
Keep your identity – and VMK account – safe, never give out personal information on VMK!
2. Can you tell me about the VMK Staff? Who are they? How do I become Staff?
VMK Staff members are NOT kids but actually adults trained specifically to handle VMK. VMK Staff may look like you in the game (but with cool Mickey ears) in reality they're actually more like school teachers - in fact, many of the VMK Staff are teachers, or have been teachers, which is why they choose to be VMK Staff, because they like to teach and help kids.
VMK Staff should be treated like you would treat a school teacher: with respect. They're here to help you and keep you safe, but they also must step in when you're not following the game guidelines.
VMK Staff are very, very busy working to keep you safe. So while it's ok to say hello, don't be rude to them, misbehave or report false information. If you do, you could get banned and in VMK bans are like being sent to the principal's office - and nobody wants that.
VMK Staff are adults trained to help you and keep the community safe - so please treat them with respect. In fact, treat EVERYONE in VMK with respect; it's more fun to play that way.
PLEASE NOTE: Interested in becoming VMK Staff or a Host? We are not hiring new Staff or Host, thanks for your interest.
3. I keep using the Call for Help Tool and I keep getting a message that says "Press the ignore button!" Is anyone helping with my problem?
Yes, someone is responding to your problem. Just because a moderator sends you a message telling you to please use the "Ignore" Button, it doesn't mean the moderator is ignoring your problem! The moderator is asking you to ignore the other player because the moderator may be investigating the situation or helping another player. Using "Ignore" is the easiest and best way to stop the problem from getting worse.
4. What happens if you send false reports to VMK Staff members?
If you send a false report you could get banned. Yes, we want you to report players that aren't following the VMK Values (no, you won't get banned for reporting someone - if your report is indeed real), but DO NOT send false reports. Our Moderators and Staff research your report and if we find you've reported something which isn't true, you'll get a warning (which goes against your account), and you possibly could be banned. (The VMK Staff is very busy and are working very hard to keep you safe – so don't send them on a wild goose chase, it's not a good use of their time.)
Report ONLY things that HAVE happened, not what you think or assume someone has done, and report the issue IMMEDIATELY! If VMK Staff don't appear it doesn't mean the situation isn't being monitored or looked into (remember, we see everything that goes on in the game, and don't have to physically be in the game to do so) so you don't need to re-report it, leave the room and play in another room. VMK Staff researches all reports.
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: mailman@virtualmagickingdom.com. (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.
Event Info
Happenings this Month in VMK
Super Bowl Tailgate Party – The Wrap Up
The VMK Super Bowl Tailgate Party was a big success! Thanks to all the players that participated in the event. If you missed it, our in-game HOST handed out prizes and players played VMK as the big game played out.
Everyone that entered VMK that day got a special VMK 2008 Bowl Pin and many players got even more special surprises!
Here's a quick look at just a few of the player created rooms the Kingdom got to enjoy!
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Is ppiglett a Giants fan? From the looks of it, we'd say so!
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Midien was prepared for the action with this awesome VMK Home Theater set up!
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ForeverWDW was ready for the big party! And so were guests with their own chair and side table for snacks!
Check out VMK's other great events happening this month!
Fireworks Fridays
Get double rewards when you play the Castle Fireworks remixed game throughout the month of January. Play now!
Update 1 February 2008
Get double rewards when you play the Castle Fireworks remixed game throughout the month of February.
Hannah Montana One in a Million Quest
February just got even sweeter! Watch the new Hannah Montana One in a Million Disney DVD, then play the NEW VMK Hannah Montana Quest!
Complete the Quest for an exclusive VMK Hannah Montana Gold Microphone virtual pin.
Check out Hannah Montana in stores now!
Twitches Too Magic Quest
What's more magical than a new Quest? How about a new magic-themed Quest to celebrate the release of Twitches Too on Disney DVD- in stores now.
That's right we're launching a brand new Twitches Too Quest. PLAY NOW!
Check out Twitches Too in stores now!
Check the Community Calendar for more events, details and event times.
Magic 101
From 24 January 2008
Be astonished! Be amazed! Step right up for the magnificent marvels of the Main Street Magic Shop! Discover the secrets to this new VMK additon!
Main Street Magic Shop
Not only can you buy the latest Magic here but also play a game of Magic Shop Checkers (for credits and points) in the Main Street Magic Shop. For instructions on how to play Magic Shop Checkers, click here.
Is the Magic Shop Checkers game still a mystery to you? Sounds like you might want to check out our FAQ.
Room Makeover
15 February 2008
Each week VMK's HOST_Bella selects (at random) a lucky player from the Kingdom for a Room Makeover! HOST_Bella then remakes the room – for free – using items that are donated to the players and they get to keep!
See the results here, including BEFORE and AFTER pics and tips you can use to make better rooms.
This week:
SamDaPirate's
Fortune Cookie!
Ok, so we didn't actually make a fortune cookie – Fortune Cookie was the name of the restaurant that SamDaPirate wanted to open in honor of Chinese New Year!
He got his inspiration for this room when a few of our Hong Kong Disneyland items were put back on sale – he wanted to create a place where friends and guests could dine in style for the Year of the Mouse!
When I came across his room it was rather empty at first. He had a great idea but couldn't quite get the layout right. Since he was already in the process of re-arranging the items he had already put down three or four times, I decided to ease his frustrations by helping build the restaurant of his dreams!
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BEFORE: Resturanting 101: Start with a clean floor.
As far as the look and feel of the room goes SamDaPirate was on the right track, using red and gold as his primary room colors. This works great considering that red and gold are the traditional colors of Chinese New Year!
With that in mind, we started on the floor, laying out red Bamboo Tiki Rugs. Now you may think Tiki Rugs don't fit our theme at first, but they're pacific asian influence worked perfectly for this room.
Once we had the rugs laid out on the main floor and near the entrance, we created booths from Pirate Map Tables and Ariel Treasure Chests around the outside of the room. (Ya know, those sparkling gold jewels in the Treasure Chests are a symbol of good fortune!)
We also created a special table in the center of the room from yellow Captain Nemo Chairs and red Disney Cruise Travel Chest (just in case any special guests – like Mickey – show up). Yum! I can almost smell the Chow Mein cooking!
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DURING: Red and gold symbolize happiness and wealth!
Now to add some atmosphere! Next to every table we placed a Hong Kong Disneyland Paper Lantern in yellow and made sure they were all lit. We placed fresh flowers near the entrance and at the corners of the room in the form of Royal Castle Flower. Then we created an entryway on the stage by placing a Tiki Tiki Tiki Fountain on top of a red Madame Leota Table and surrounded it with a pair of Paper Lanterns.
A couple of Disneyland Retro Penny Presses on either side of an Aquarium Water Cooler give chocolate coins for a sweet treat. Then we added a Hong Kong Disneyland Poster in red near the top of the steps and a red Pirate Player Piano at the bottom right corner for entertainment.
Finally, at the bottom of both sets of steps we placed four presents to symbolize good fortune and generosity. Our last addition to the room was a Queen of Hearts Stretch Throne where guests can sit while they wait for a table.
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AFTER: Let's see – I'll take an order of Fried Rice, an Egg Roll, some Orange Chicken, Won Tons, Sweet and Sour soup, Sweet and Sour Pork, Kung Pow Chicken, Peking Duck – and a soda.
Now this is a resturant!
Drop by The Fortune Cookie and celebrate Chinese New year and the Year of the Mouse! You'll be in for some fabulous food and fun festivities!
See you next week!
HOST_Bella
Submit your room for a Makeover using Contact Us.
Top Players
Create a Great Guest Room!
Get Recognized!
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Debsangels's Rabbit in a Hat is this week's winner for Best Guest Room.
Do you have a cool Guest Room you want to tell the Kingdom about? Do you know someone with a great hangout spot or game? Then nominate yourself or someone else for Best Game Room, Best Guest Room or Best Quest Room!
To nominate a player for consideration, click the Contact Us link at the bottom of any VMK webpage and then follow the prompts. You must select Nominate the Best from the list of options to have your nomination considered.
The weekly Best Guest Room Winner wins a party in Club 33!
Send in your nomination now!
Player created Guest, Quest or Game Rooms demonstrate originality in concept and design. Our judges are looking for creativity, so try using traditional items in different and unique ways. Rooms are judged by VMK Staff and selected from player submitted rooms and Quest.
New winners are posted here every week.
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
 Best Guest Room | Alakazam! Debsangels has found A Rabbit in a Hat! With a wave of her magic wand, Debsangels has made a cute and fluffy friend appear. No, not a little blue alien... a white rabbit!
We picked this themed room because of it's variety and great design. Utilizing the standard Coffee Table Crates along with Ice Chairs (and a few well placed Heart Seats) Debsangels has created a truly magical moment. Once you've said hello to the resident hare, take in some other fantastical fare! Perform a few magic tricks, take a seat in front of Madame Leota's Crystal Ball and have your destiny revealed or have your fortune read!
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Best Game Rooms
 Best Game Room  | ShoreBoy has a mystical new game for you during this magical month! His Magical Hearts Game is fun, easy and loaded with great prizes!
Have a seat in this beautifully decorated room and spin the generator. If you land on one, two, or three, you'll have to try again. But if you spin a four, five, or six, you get the chance to choose one of the four heart shaped teleporter pads. If you choose correctly, you'll be transported to a prize room! You can play over and over again because ShoreBoy switches up the teleporters every few minutes to keep you guessing and coming back for more!
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Best Player Quests
 Best Quest  | Back to the drawing board! ACECpt.Rich teaches you how to draw Mickey Mouse in The Making of Mickey Quest! Learn a little history about this most magnificent mouse and discover the fundamentals of drawing.
Do you know what common shapes Disney animators use to draw Mickey? Where should his eyes and mouth be positioned? Learn everything you need to know and soon you'll be an expert animator!
The Best Quest Room Winner receives: |
New players are selected weekly in each category depending on number of nominations/submissions.
Players who have previously won as a Top Player do not receive the Room Award Pin twice, instead, they receive a VIP Award Pin.
Room awards offered may change without notice. VMK reserves the right to subtitute or change awards at any time.
New to VMK?
A Guide for New Players!
Welcome to Virtual Magic Kindgom. Thanks for joining us! It's a big Kingdom out there and we want to help you make the most of it!
Before you enter the Kingdom, please take a moment and review these tips, it will help make your visit to the Virtual Magic Kingdom a truly magical one!
First Things First!
Like any community, our Kingdom has guidelines to keep things safe and fun for everyone.
- We know you're excited to enter the Kingdom, but before you do take a moment to review the VMK Values.
- The VMK Values are our rules of play, if you aren't familiar with them and don't follow them you could get banned from the Kingdom and you don't want that!
Get In The Game!
If you're new to games (or VMK), don't worry, help is here! We've got plenty of info about finding your way around the Kingdom.
Ahoy matey! Adventure awaits you in the Virtual Magic Kingdom.
- Need a helping hand? Our Game Guide will walk you through all you need to know to get started.
- Got a question about something in VMK or that relates to VMK? We've got answers, and you'll find those in our Frequently Asked Questions, or FAQs.
Know Before You Go!
The VMK website has a ton of great information, but you should always check out the Newsletter page (hint, you're reading it now!) any announcements about VMK will always be made here first!
- For the latest events check out the Event Info section, also right here on the Newsletter page.
- Check our Safety section, Safety Corner for tips on safe play.
- Need game advice? Visit the Yeti for Yeti's Tips and Tricks for insider tips.
The Yeti's gaming advice and great tips!
- How about cool Disney Trivia and history? Push Trivia and Dateline Disney are just for you!
Still got questions? We have answers!
Check out the FAQs Page, if you can't find an answer there, use Contact Us to reach our support team directly.
VMK Cards
AWESOME REWARDS!
Check out the VMK Rewards Card Checklist and make sure you have all the VMK bling! What cards do you have in your collection?
Community Reminder
1. Worried about being banned?
Then ALWAYS USE GOOD JUDGEMENT when playing VMK. Treat other players as you would like to treated, don't use foul language or take part in bad behavior - any activity like this will get you banned, in almost every case, permanently.
2. Scamming players will get you banned!
Scamming of any kind is not tolerated in VMK. If you are involved in scamming players in any way, your account will be banned. If you promise an item to another player and don't award it, you will be banned from VMK. If you have a player that's offering an item and the offer seems "too good to be true," it probably is. Always use your best judgment and trade with caution.
3. Pay to Play is not allowed in VMK.
Any room where you pay to play a game and it's up to the room owner to award the prize is against VMK Values and not allowed in VMK. Opening a Pay to Play room is a violation of the VMK game guidelines and will get you banned from VMK.
VMK will continue to charge for some public rooms (like Pirates), as Pay to Play scams are a larger problem for personal rooms.
4. 'Relationship' rooms? Not in VMK.
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.
VMK reserves the right to update and/or revise the VMK Values and House Rules without notice. Please make sure you periodically review the VMK Values and House Rules for the most current game guidelines.
For more information or a reminder of what's acceptable in VMK review the VMK Values page.
Account Problems?
Have you tried logging into VMK after a few months only to find your VMK account has been deleted?
Because of the size of our community we have to delete accounts that are inactive for more than 6 months to make room for new players - so if you haven't played in a while, be sure to log in every now and then (even if just for a few minutes) and keep your account active!
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 these e-mail providers have filters that 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 mailman@virtualmagickingdom.com. Please note this email address does not receive e-mail except via the Contact Us form.
