Harbor Master HD - by Imangi - FREE!!! (v1.5 multi tasking)

[ImNoSuperMan]

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/harbor-master-hd/id363658120?mt=8

[SimonMTL]

Well, this isn't the full Harbor Master; it only has one map (or so I'm told)!!! I take it they'll be updating it with the maps from the main game once they got to play around with it on their own iPad, and will also tinker with the controls at the same time.

[Deewin]

Well, this isn't the full Harbor Master; it only has one map (or so I'm told)!!! I take it they'll be updating it with the maps from the main game once they got to play around with it on their own iPad, and will also tinker with the controls at the same time.

I'm guessing that the rest of the maps will probably be paid DLC.

[nattylux]

@Simon Yes, this version is just the Treasure Island map. We'll probably add more maps as DLC, as Deewin said. But they'll most likely be brand new maps, not just the ones from the iPhone version.

Also, Keith and I finally got to play this on the iPad. Wow. Even I didn't think it would be this much fun. It was perfect to play for two people. We got 194! What's everyone else's high score?

[nattylux]

If you guys are having fun, we would really appreciate a review on iTunes. Always hard to get reviews for free games :)

Oh, and if you're not having fun, definitely tell us why. But not on iTunes :P

[ImNoSuperMan]

If you guys are having fun, we would really appreciate a review on iTunes. Always hard to get reviews for free games :)
Would've left a review but not anymore. You stop other devs from holding contests and yet have no problem claiming an iPad from another contest :/

No review for you!
ok. j/k. I dont even have an iPad yet :p. Will review as soon as I get my hands on it. Hurry up with the international release Apple :D

[1337brian]

Would've left a review but not anymore. You stop other devs from holding contests and yet have no problem claiming an iPad from another contest :/

No review for you!
ok. j/k. I dont even have an iPad yet :p. Wilhands on it. Hurry up with the international release Apple :D


???
:confused:

[pluto6]

Would've left a review but not anymore. You stop other devs from holding contests and yet have no problem claiming an iPad from another contest :/

No review for you!
ok. j/k. I dont even have an iPad yet :p. Will review as soon as I get my hands on it. Hurry up with the international release Apple :D

Hey INSM!!!????

What is with the white on white text?!?!?!? Some of us 'round here thought you were being serious, and I just can't get my head wrapped around Natty being anything but sweet...

For those of you who can see - just highlight under the No review for you! and you can see the text...




Some impressions - I am a lucky guy to get the iPad, and played some with the HM app. Like the other HD game - pure eye candy. Really difficult though as the screen is so large that you forget about the guys on the edges. Also, some of lines can be pretty darn long... I think that my high so far is like 37 or so.. I am sucking pretty bad so far. But it is quite challenging, and the fast dock is really, really fast...

[nattylux]

Would've left a review but not anymore. You stop other devs from holding contests and yet have no problem claiming an iPad from another contest :/

No review for you!
ok. j/k. I dont even have an iPad yet :p. Will review as soon as I get my hands on it. Hurry up with the international release Apple :D

I would never suggest such a thing. I think every developer everywhere should give away an iPad at least once a day. It's good for them. Particularly in whatever country you're in. Which is where, again? Want to make sure I get it right, I'm giving a talk on this next week.

Hey INSM!!!????

What is with the white on white text?!?!?!? Some of us 'round here thought you were being serious, and I just can't get my head wrapped around Natty being anything but sweet...

:cool:


For those of you who can see - just highlight under the No review for you! and you can see the text...

Some impressions - I am a lucky guy to get the iPad, and played some with the HM app. Like the other HD game - pure eye candy. Really difficult though as the screen is so large that you forget about the guys on the edges. Also, some of lines can be pretty darn long... I think that my high so far is like 37 or so.. I am sucking pretty bad so far. But it is quite challenging, and the fast dock is really, really fast...

Yeah, it's definitely a lot harder, it's a lot to keep track of. It's really fun with two people - have you tried that yet?

[ImNoSuperMan]

I would never suggest such a thing.
Lies (http://twitter.com/nattylux/status/11054510508) :eek:

I think every developer everywhere should give away an iPad at least once a day.
This better not be a lie, coz I like the sound of it. FreeIPadAday :D

Shill ratings posted on iTunes to make sure I win that iPad :D

Ok, not really shill, based on the iPhone version, playing this on iPad has gotta be nothing short of awesome. Will post the review too once I do get to actually try it out :)

[ilusions]

Contests that give away free stuff are like the lottery...you never win.

[Inked]

On my iPad in the apple case this game is upside-down. Does this game support any screen orientation?

[Symbolist]

Free game?
No. Not free.
Light version.

[nattylux]

On my iPad in the apple case this game is upside-down. Does this game support any screen orientation?

Yes, a lot of people have alerted us to this problem. We had multiple orientations 95% working, but ran into issues testing it on the simulator, so we decided to submit with a single orientation. We'll definitely add multiple orientations in the next update.

Free game?
No. Not free.
Light version.

We can give you a refund ;)

[IUGOME]

Hey Natalia and Keith, my husband and I played HM HD on his new iPad, so effing fun! I won't post our score because it sucked. I think I blocked it out of my mind as I don't even remember. But seriously, aside from IUGO games (;)) this is my fave iDevice game ever!



@Simon Yes, this version is just the Treasure Island map. We'll probably add more maps as DLC, as Deewin said. But they'll most likely be brand new maps, not just the ones from the iPhone version.

Also, Keith and I finally got to play this on the iPad. Wow. Even I didn't think it would be this much fun. It was perfect to play for two people. We got 194! What's everyone else's high score?

[Inked]

Yes, a lot of people have alerted us to this problem. We had multiple orientations 95% working, but ran into issues testing it on the simulator, so we decided to submit with a single orientation. We'll definitely add multiple orientations in the next update.



Looking forward to it, thanks.

[nattylux]

Hey Natalia and Keith, my husband and I played HM HD on his new iPad, so effing fun! I won't post our score because it sucked. I think I blocked it out of my mind as I don't even remember. But seriously, aside from IUGO games (;)) this is my fave iDevice game ever!

You're so sweet! Yeah, it's so much harder than the original. I'm really glad we have the device now so we can design some sweet new levels and actually test them. Playing on the simulator is incredibly hard and completely different from the real game experience.

[nattylux]

Hey guys,

We just submitted an update that adds support for multiple orientations. Now you should be able to play it properly in the Apple case.

Hope it gets approved quickly!

[iStephen]

Excited for the update! Definitely useful.

Did anyone notice that Firemint gave this game a 1 star rating on the first page of this forum?...

wow...that made me lose some respect for Firemint.

[SunriseMoon]

Excited for the update! Definitely useful.

Did anyone notice that Firemint gave this game a 1 star rating on the first page of this forum?...

wow...that made me lose some respect for Firemint.

I noticed now. I never truly had any respect for firemint :p

[nattylux]

The update that fixes the orientation problem just got approved. Should be available in a few hours.

Now you can finally play Harbor Master HD in the Apple case without having to hang upside down from the ceiling :)

Let me know if the fix works for you guys, and if there are any other issues you find that need fixing.

[ipod's rock]

I have this game but I don't have a iPad yet. when I get my iPad this is going to be my first game I will put on and be my first game to play on the iPad:D

[Psykikgmr]

This game rocks. Thanks for the game :)

[ipod's rock]

The update that fixes the orientation problem just got approved. Should be available in a few hours.

Now you can finally play Harbor Master HD in the Apple case without having to hang upside down from the ceiling :)

Let me know if the fix works for you guys, and if there are any other issues you find that need fixing.

yes! an update. I hope there will be new levels when I get my ipad:)

[Psykikgmr]

Lol, Firemint gave it a 1 star in the ratings.

[starmonkey101]

Lol, Firemint gave it a 1 star in the ratings.

hahhhahahhaha. how do you know?

[ipod's rock]

hahhhahahhaha. how do you know?

Go to page 1 and you will see: Average User Rating: (5) click on the five and it will say who gave it what rating

[ipod's rock]

Lol, Firemint gave it a 1 star in the ratings.

LOL thats kind of funny:p

[starmonkey101]

LOL thats kind of funny:p

i think its a bit shallow. like this game better than flight control anyways. :p

[Psykikgmr]

Yeah I wouldn't be surprised if some people at Firemint downloaded the game and dropped a 1 star rating in the AppStore either. Those evil monkeys, still kinda funny :D

[starmonkey101]

Yeah I wouldn't be surprised if some people at Firemint downloaded the game and dropped a 1 star rating in the AppStore either. Those evil monkeys, still kinda funny :D

hahhhahhaah yea. :o

[ipod's rock]

Yeah I wouldn't be surprised if some people at Firemint downloaded the game and dropped a 1 star rating in the AppStore either. Those evil monkeys, still kinda funny :D

Thats what happend:p

[ImNoSuperMan]

v1.01 is available now.

What's New in Version 1.01

Thanks for downloading Harbor Master HD and making it a huge success!

- This update adds support for multiple orientations, so now you can play with your iPad in its case.
- We also fixed the bug where the music stops playing occasionally.

Thanks to everyone who alerted us about these problems. If you find any other bugs or issues, please let us know!

[Psykikgmr]

Yay on the new update!

<3 you Imangi :)

[nattylux]

Thanks guys - we <3 you too :D

And thanks to everyone who left a good review on the new version. The update wiped all of our reviews, so if you're enjoying it, definitely drop us a review on the App Store, that would be awesome.

We're going to start working on new levels... soon. Trying to work on 10 things at the same time right now, but I'm really eager to get some more levels out. The new levels will be available through in app purchase.

And it looks like Harbor Master HD is back to the #5 top free iPad game! You all are great :)

[Little White Bear Studios]

And thanks to everyone who left a good review on the new version. The update wiped all of our reviews, so if you're enjoying it, definitely drop us a review on the App Store, that would be awesome.


Done and done. :)

[nattylux]

Done and done. :)

Thanks! As a complete aside, I played TanZen HD the whole way on my flight to CA. It's amazing. I tried leaving a review a couple of times but had issues. Going to attempt that again.

EDIT - yes, review success! It's under kshepherd, but that's me :)

[Little White Bear Studios]

Thanks! As a complete aside, I played TanZen HD the whole way on my flight to CA. It's amazing. I tried leaving a review a couple of times but had issues. Going to attempt that again.

EDIT - yes, review success! It's under kshepherd, but that's me :)

Hey thanks! Glad you're enjoying it! Discovered a favorite skin yet?

[nattylux]

Wooo! Harbor Master HD is featured on the iPad!

http://forums.toucharcade.com/picture.php?albumid=149&pictureid=3924

(Thanks to Little White Bear for alerting me to this fact as I try to survive in the internet dead zone that is San Jose :))

[ImNoSuperMan]

Wooo! Harbor Master HD is featured on the iPad!


Congratz :)


EDIT - yes, review success! It's under kshepherd, but that's me :)

Wait, you are KShepherd? What did you do to natalia????????????

[nattylux]

Wait, you are KShepherd? What did you do to natalia????????????

Haha - we buy all our apps with Keith's account, which means that he gets credit for all my masterfully written iTunes reviews. Ok, there aren't all that many. I'm bad.

[Venalin]

the game really does get better as the screen you play it on gets bigger.
One of my first iPad buys actually

[dud112]

I don't know if this had been said yet, but I think it would be nice of there was some sort of sound effect when a new boat was about to appear or atleast a larger arrow, I constantly end up losing just cause I didn't notice a new boat entering the screen.

[nattylux]

the game really does get better as the screen you play it on gets bigger.
One of my first iPad buys actually

Thanks!

I don't know if this had been said yet, but I think it would be nice of there was some sort of sound effect when a new boat was about to appear or atleast a larger arrow, I constantly end up losing just cause I didn't notice a new boat entering the screen.

That's actually a great idea. It was fine not to have an entrance warning on the iPhone, since the screen is small enough to scan, but it would help to do this on iPad. Maybe we'll add it in an update - thanks for the suggestion.

[jwr94]

i wish i could have an iPad! but when i have it at the ned of may.Harbor Master will be definetely the first free game i will download :D

[kshep]

We're hard at work on a new map for Harbor Master HD. This one is a bit inspired by the islands on the coast of Thailand. We're thinking of calling it "Thousand Islands".

This is what a Harbor Master map looks like before we do any art. Basically a rapid prototype that lets us easily test different land configurations. Once we find something we like, then we hand it over to Kiril, and he makes it look pretty. ;-)

What do you think?

http://forums.toucharcade.com/picture.php?albumid=173&pictureid=3990

[Tarengo]

Love it. Looks absolutely hectic with all the action going on in the middle. Would also be nice with some asymmetry.

Btw, long time player but just got the iPad and played with this version with my girlfriend. It was a blast...definitely would like to see a level or five designed for people right next to each other.

[Wegmans]

Definitely would look great with some fancy tropical archipelago style graphics! Great work, I've enjoyed watching this develop over time!

[The prez 12521]

Amazing game! I hadnt played Harbor MAster in forever, then i played this, and even downloaded the iphone version for my ipad! Cant wait!

[nattylux]

Love it. Looks absolutely hectic with all the action going on in the middle. Would also be nice with some asymmetry.

Btw, long time player but just got the iPad and played with this version with my girlfriend. It was a blast...definitely would like to see a level or five designed for people right next to each other.

Thanks! Yes, we'll have to make some levels specifically designed for multiplayer. I keep wanting something where each player even gets their own score, so you fight over the boats. We'll get to it at some point...

Definitely would look great with some fancy tropical archipelago style graphics! Great work, I've enjoyed watching this develop over time!

Thank you! We can't wait to see what our artist does with it. I'm sure it will look amazing.

Amazing game! I hadnt played Harbor MAster in forever, then i played this, and even downloaded the iphone version for my ipad! Cant wait!

Excellent. How do you like Harbor Master for iPhone on the iPad? Do you find yourself playing it in 2x mode, or just small?

[CrAzYG]

cool! look like flight control in water, yes? :D cant wait to try out!

[nattylux]

cool! look like flight control in water, yes? :D cant wait to try out!

Hah, yeah, kind of. The main differences are that in HM, you have to guide boats in, let them unload, and guide them out, whereas in FC the planes disappear once you land them. The pacing is pretty different too - HM is quite a bit faster. And in HM, the land configuration makes a big difference. Whereas plans can obviously fly everywhere, boats can only go on water, so you have to route traffic appropriately to avoid the land masses.

Have fun with it!

[loves2spoon]

Hah, yeah, kind of. The main differences are that in HM, you have to guide boats in, let them unload, and guide them out, whereas in FC the planes disappear once you land them. The pacing is pretty different too - HM is quite a bit faster. And in HM, the land configuration makes a big difference. Whereas plans can obviously fly everywhere, boats can only go on water, so you have to route traffic appropriately to avoid the land masses. Don't forget HM is FREE!

Have fun with it!

I fixed it for you :D

[nattylux]

So Apple just announced that they've sold 1,000,000 iPads - which means that Harbor Master HD is installed on 10% of all iPads! Pretty amazing. Thanks to everyone who picked up a copy.

(And yes, that means we've sold 100k copies).

In actual work news, we are almost done with this new level. Added pirates to make it a bit more interesting :D Going to try to submit by the end of the week!

I fixed it for you :D

Haha thanks.

[LordGek]

So Apple just announced that they've sold 1,000,000 iPads - which means that Harbor Master HD is installed on 10% of all iPads! Pretty amazing. Thanks to everyone who picked up a copy.

(And yes, that means we've sold 100k copies).

In actual work news, we are almost done with this new level. Added pirates to make it a bit more interesting :D Going to try to submit by the end of the week!


Cool beans! Definitely one of the neater concepts although, now that you've already laid the groundwork in the original HM, perhaps some of the HM HD maps can combine some of the best elements of multiple maps (like your first HM HD map did with the quick loading docks, colored cargo, and whirlpools).

[nattylux]

Update Submitted! When approved, you will be able to buy additional levels through in-app purchase. There is currently one new level available - Pirate Passage.

http://imangistudios.com/harbormaster/images/piratePassage.png

As you can see, you have to manage 3 docks and navigate narrow island passages, all while fighting off the pirates. Make sure to shoot them down with your cannon before they take over your ships.

You'll be able to buy Pirate Passage for $0.99.

Just so you know why it took so long - we spent most of the time implementing the IAP system, which is pretty complicated. If sales of Pirate Passage go well, we'll definitely be adding more maps, and hopefully we'll be able to get each map out faster.

Wish us a quick approval!

EDIT: Forgot to add - if you buy any IAP, the ads go away.

[LordGek]

Update Submitted! When approved, you will be able to buy additional levels through in-app purchase. There is currently one new level available - Pirate Passage.

As you can see, you have to manage 3 docks and navigate narrow island passages, all while fighting off the pirates. Make sure to shoot them down with your cannon before they take over your ships.

You'll be able to buy Pirate Passage for $0.99.

Just so you know why it took so long - we spent most of the time implementing the IAP system, which is pretty complicated. If sales of Pirate Passage go well, we'll definitely be adding more maps, and hopefully we'll be able to get each map out faster.

Wish us a quick approval!

How does one work the guns again (I'm assuming it's the same way as in the original but then didn't that just have one gun so I'm not sure how that applies to this multi-gun setup)?

[nattylux]

How does one work the guns again (I'm assuming it's the same way as in the original but then didn't that just have one gun so I'm not sure how that applies to this multi-gun setup)?

It works the same way as with one gun - draw a line from the cannon to your target, and the cannon fires in a straight line. You have to hit a pirate ship twice to drown it.

When we first made this map, we just put in one cannon, but that was way too hard on the big screen, since you had to aim really far. That's why we put in 3 cannons, so you can use the cannon closest to your target.

Also, HM now supports 6 simultaneous touches, so you can really do some great multiplayer stuff. For example, you can have a friend handle all the cannons in this map.

[LordGek]

It works the same way as with one gun - draw a line from the cannon to your target, and the cannon fires in a straight line. You have to hit a pirate ship twice to drown it.

When we first made this map, we just put in one cannon, but that was way too hard on the big screen, since you had to aim really far. That's why we put in 3 cannons, so you can use the cannon closest to your target.

Also, HM now supports 6 simultaneous touches, so you can really do some great multiplayer stuff. For example, you can have a friend handle all the cannons in this map.

No complaints here, I appreciate the multiple cannons, I'm just out of practice.

[skidbubble]

Thank you, Nattylux! Please don't forget to bring back the octopus / sea monster on a future level!

[SebSalz]

You'll be able to buy Pirate Passage for $0.99.


Does every Map then cost 99cent? =/

~10$ for 10 Maps. That dosnt sound right to me. In my calculation, a full game with 8-12 Maps should cost 4,99$ or soemthing like this. But 1$ for each Map?... Thats pricey =/

[Burton]

Then just buy the ones that you think look best :D

[LordGek]

Then just buy the ones that you think look best :D

Exactly, while having no "bulk discount option" kind of sucks, at the same time I do appreciate the option to customize my fun. For example, perhaps in the future they might make a few "multiplayer only" maps, which if the case, I can skip them since I only play solo.

[nattylux]

Thanks for the thoughts on pricing, guys. It's a new area for us, so we're playing it by ear. We'll see how sales go for the first map and decide how to move on from there.

And like I mentioned to LordGek in another thread - we'd love to have a single premium price for about 5 maps. But to do that, we need to start with 5 maps, and it takes us at least 2 weeks to do a map. So we're just doing 1 map at a time for now. At some point, if it makes sense, we may start bundling them together.

[kshep]

I started working on additional maps for Harbor Master HD today. Check out these mockups / ideas and let me know what you think!

1) Horseshoe Atoll

It's an atoll inspired a bit by the Great Blue Hole off the coast of Belize. If you aren't familiar with it, check this out:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Blue_Hole

Currently it has ships with two colors of cargo. Purple on the inner coast and Orange on the outer coast. The purple docks are also "fast" unloading docks.

http://forums.toucharcade.com/picture.php?albumid=173&pictureid=4136

2) Industrial Port (got any name ideas?)

It's going to have a very industrial theme. Very much like some of the giant city ports. Tthis will be the first map to have ships with 3 different colors of cargo!

http://forums.toucharcade.com/picture.php?albumid=173&pictureid=4137

These are just rough mockups and ideas we've been playing around with to see how the land and port arrangements feel. Obviously they'll get pretty art :-)

What do you guys think?

-Keith

[starmonkey101]

I started working on additional maps for Harbor Master HD today. Check out these mockups / ideas and let me know what you think!

1) Horseshoe Atoll

It's an atoll inspired a bit by the Great Blue Hole off the coast of Belize. If you aren't familiar with it, check this out:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Blue_Hole

Currently it has ships with two colors of cargo. Purple on the inner coast and Orange on the outer coast. The purple docks are also "fast" unloading docks.

http://forums.toucharcade.com/picture.php?albumid=173&pictureid=4136

2) Industrial Port (got any name ideas?)

It's going to have a very industrial theme. Very much like some of the giant city ports. Tthis will be the first map to have ships with 3 different colors of cargo!

http://forums.toucharcade.com/picture.php?albumid=173&pictureid=4137

These are just rough mockups and ideas we've been playing around with to see how the land and port arrangements feel. Obviously they'll get pretty art :-)

What do you guys think?

-Keith

i like them :)

you should make one with narrow canals on the sides :)

[magihiro]

Speaking of canals, a Venice-inspired map with thin canals would probably be pretty darn cool.

[runformoney1110]

i like those map ideas. i think for now, maps should be added for free. when you get to like 5 maps in-game, then 2 maps should cost a buck.

[LordGek]

i like those map ideas. i think for now, maps should be added for free. when you get to like 5 maps in-game, then 2 maps should cost a buck.

Now...hold on, I'd agree with you IF the game cost money to begin with. You couldn't seriously expect them to release a game for free and then give out these new maps for free as well too, could you?

At least with this first map, while I'm not sure if $1 for a single map is completely fair, I would consider this as a combo upgrading to the full version and getting the first map. The hard truth being if a game doesn't make them any money there is less incentive for them to work on improving it.

[kshep]

Thanks guys, glad you like the map ideas! I like the idea about having canals like Venice that could be neat too. We'd probably have to put the boats on rails while they are in the canals if they are too narrow though. Might end up being more like one of the car traffic games. I'll try to mock something up with a little wider canals which would allow the player a little more control over the boats, that could be really fun too.

Definitely keep the ideas coming! We're actively working in this stuff now.

-Keith

[runformoney1110]

Now...hold on, I'd agree with you IF the game cost money to begin with. You couldn't seriously expect them to release a game for free and then give out these new maps for free as well too, could you?

At least with this first map, while I'm not sure if $1 for a single map is completely fair, I would consider this as a combo upgrading to the full version and getting the first map. The hard truth being if a game doesn't make them any money there is less incentive for them to work on improving it.
i see your point... but i think maps should cost a dollar for like a two-pack, not for each one.

[nattylux]

And the update is out! Tell me what you guys think of Pirate Passage!

http://imangistudios.com/harbormaster/images/piratePassage.png

[cepe]

Looks Great!!

[Khavatari]

Это volodymyrqa с твиттера:) апдейт прикольный)

[minameismud]

Can't. Every time I start Harbor Master HD it crashes. I get the Imangi splash screen for just shy of 10 seconds, and then right back to the home screen. I have a 32GB 3G. If you need crash logs, pm me (...and tell me how to find them...).

[goldglover411]

Can't. Every time I start Harbor Master HD it crashes. I get the Imangi splash screen for just shy of 10 seconds, and then right back to the home screen. I have a 32GB 3G. If you need crash logs, pm me (...and tell me how to find them...).

you need an ipad

[minameismud]

you need an ipad

that is an ipad. :rolleyes: we're in an iPad forum. i was hoping folks in here would be able to understand that "32GB 3G" is short for "32-gigabyte-capacity 3G+WiFi iPad".

for nattylux (i assume): i just rebooted my iPad and tried HM first thing. still dies about 10 seconds after the splash screen shows.

[Bruno]

Hello nattylux,

Mine is crashing as well. I launch the game and on the Imangi screen (the very first one), it freezes for a few seconds than close, and returns to home screen.

That is happening after the update.

Cheers,

Bruno

[kshep]

Hey guys,

A few other people have reported this problem as well. So far in every case if you simply delete Harbor Master HD and re-install it, that seems to fix the problem. Please let me know if that doesn't work for you. So sorry, not sure what caused the problem!

-Keith

[nattylux]

Gah, sorry for the crashes, everyone.

Like kshep said, just delete and reinstall. That seems to fix it.

We're still trying to work out what is causing the problem.

Это volodymyrqa с твиттера:) апдейт прикольный)

Привет! Спасибо. Какой у тебя счет на Pirate Passage?

[heffdog116]

Loving the new map on the iPad. No crash problems here, but I did reboot as soon as updated app and I bought the new DLC. Gets real hectic with all dem damn pirates

[Bruno]

I did reboot after installing the update and it did not work.

As Keith and Natty recommended, I uninstalled the game and installed it again and now it is working perfectly.

Thank you,

Bruno

[nattylux]

Ok, Keith figured out the problem. It's only happening for people who were in the middle of a saved game when they installed the update. He fixed it and we're going to try to push an emergency update.

*** In the meantime, the delete and reinstall trick works just fine. Don't worry about waiting for the emergency update. That will be for people to whom we can't communicate the delete-and-reinstall trick :) ***

Loving the new map on the iPad. No crash problems here, but I did reboot as soon as updated app and I bought the new DLC. Gets real hectic with all dem damn pirates

Awesome, glad you like it!

I did reboot after installing the update and it did not work.

As Keith and Natty recommended, I uninstalled the game and installed it again and now it is working perfectly.

Thank you,

Bruno

Great, glad that fixed it. I just got back to your PM, btw.

[LordGek]

So am I simply confused or is the Pirate map bigger (obviously both maps are the same size, but the ships seem smaller to me in the pirate map). :confused:

I think I'm just confusing myself since I still enjoy the original HM on my iPad as well. :D

[JoeAverage]

Your eyes are going Gek--lol, are you telling us you need a magnifying glass to play the new map?

;)

Cheers,

Joe

So am I simply confused or is the Pirate map bigger (obviously both maps are the same size, but the ships seem smaller to me in the pirate map). :confused:

I think I'm just confusing myself since I still enjoy the original HM on my iPad as well. :D

[LordGek]

Your eyes are going Gek--lol, are you telling us you need a magnifying glass to play the new map?

;)

Cheers,

Joe

I like the ships tiny, not complaining. It makes it easier to get in very detailed routes. :D

[JoeAverage]

I was just teasing. :)

I've purchased the map but haven't tried it yet. I have to wait as I've been issued a threat from my wife who's the actual owner of the iPad, she has dibs on the inaugural first play.

LOL

- Joe

I like the ships tiny, not complaining. It makes it easier to get in very detailed routes. :D

[LordGek]

I was just teasing. :)

I've purchased the map but haven't tried it yet. I have to wait as I've been issued a threat from my wife who's the actual owner of the iPad, she has dibs on the inaugural first play.

LOL

- Joe

Bastagette! :p

[BazookaTime]

Is there any chance that a two player mode would work with this game, similar to what was done for Flight Control on the ipad?

[nattylux]

@LordGek Haha - we definitely didn't change the ship size for this level. Maybe they look smaller because there's more water? Or it could be because you've been playing the iPhone version.

@JoeAverage I love that your wife gets "inaugural first play" rights. If Keith ever steals my games and (horror of horrors!) beats my high score, I always delete and reinstall so I can start fresh :D

@BazookaTime We've definitely thought about multiplayer and have some ideas for how to do it. If you have the iPhone version, we do have Bluetooth multiplayer there. It's competitive and really fun. But we're already thinking about multiplayer for the iPad version and will try to implement it in one of the future updates.

[minameismud]

deleted & reinstalled. fixed! thanks guys!

[JoeAverage]

So I'll go ahead and add the lowest priority feature request *ever*, to your game enhancements list... the "Joe's wife enhancement" which allows you to reset a single specific (newly downloaded) map's data without impacting the other maps' statistics so as to appear to the wife that she is the first to play.

It can't just be a reinstall b/c that would wipe everything right? And even if it wouldn't, I'm at work and can't sync it up to the mac.

LOL

Thanks,

Joe

P.S. I'm dying to try out the new map!

@LordGek Haha - we definitely didn't change the ship size for this level. Maybe they look smaller because there's more water? Or it could be because you've been playing the iPhone version.

@JoeAverage I love that your wife gets "inaugural first play" rights. If Keith ever steals my games and (horror of horrors!) beats my high score, I always delete and reinstall so I can start fresh :D

@BazookaTime We've definitely thought about multiplayer and have some ideas for how to do it. If you have the iPhone version, we do have Bluetooth multiplayer there. It's competitive and really fun. But we're already thinking about multiplayer for the iPad version and will try to implement it in one of the future updates.

[LordGek]

So I'll go ahead and add the lowest priority feature request *ever*, to your game enhancements list... the "Joe's wife enhancement" which allows you to reset a single specific (newly downloaded) map's data without impacting the other maps' statistics so as to appear to the wife that she is the first to play.

It can't just be a reinstall b/c that would wipe everything right? And even if it wouldn't, I'm at work and can't sync it up to the mac.

LOL

Thanks,

Joe

P.S. I'm dying to try out the new map!

While I feel your pain, Joe, I almost see this as something abuseable if things like map carer stats are shareable online (I can't recall if they are currently), since it would mean somebody could spend several sessions on a map, build up their skill on the map, and then reset that map's stats, to come off as an expert on the map on his very first run.

[nattylux]

deleted & reinstalled. fixed! thanks guys!

Awesome - glad it worked!

So I'll go ahead and add the lowest priority feature request *ever*, to your game enhancements list... the "Joe's wife enhancement" which allows you to reset a single specific (newly downloaded) map's data without impacting the other maps' statistics so as to appear to the wife that she is the first to play.

It can't just be a reinstall b/c that would wipe everything right? And even if it wouldn't, I'm at work and can't sync it up to the mac.

LOL

Thanks,

Joe

P.S. I'm dying to try out the new map!

Joe, I'm about to make your day. As long as your wife is not aware of this forum, of course :)

You can create your own user profile, and have your own completely separate data.

On the first screen, click on Options (the boat on the bottom right). You'll probably see the <Default> profile. Just scroll to the right, and you'll see a New Player profile. Just edit that to your name, and you have a whole profile all to yourself.

Just make sure to switch back to your wife's profile before she gets the iPad back ;)

[JoeAverage]

W00t, Joe 1, Wife 0!

Victory is mine.

Ty Natty!

[nattylux]

Awesome, the emergency update just went live. You can all now update with impunity, and everything should magically work.

Whew :)

[nattylux]

Beware the Kraken!

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs558.ash1/32527_397785477140_197189117140_3987675_4302172_n. jpg

[heffdog116]

I want that NOW!!

[LordGek]

Beware the Kraken!


I'm afraid...very afraid. :eek:

I'm assuming an occasional tentacle will reach out from the deep part of the map?

[nattylux]

By the way, this level was inspired by the Great Blue Hole in Belize. I find it awesome and terrifying.

http://www.lifeinthefastlane.ca/wp-content/uploads/2008/02/great_blue_hole_belize_3sfw.jpg

I want that NOW!!

Thanks! We submitted yesterday, so... a few days?

I'm afraid...very afraid. :eek:

I'm assuming an occasional tentacle will reach out from the deep part of the map?

The monster takes over a random dock, rendering it completely unusable. You can actually see him on the left purple dock there. You have to whack him repeatedly to scare him away.

[skidbubble]

Harbor Master is simply awesome on the iPad. The pirate level is very challenging and I can't wait to get the sea monster level when it becomes available. And Imangi proves it is possible to have an iPhone version and a separate iPad version without plastering a big, ugly "HD" across the game's icon. I wish other developers would also adopt this practice. Everything is "HD" this and "HD" that. Just because something is on the iPad does not mean it is "HD".

With that being said, I will go back to patiently waiting for geoSpark HD :p:D

[ibelongintheforums]

Haha - we buy all our apps with Keith's account, which means that he gets credit for all my masterfully written iTunes reviews. Ok, there aren't all that many. I'm bad.

Hey Imangi, love your games so much I want more. And I was wondering if you are ever going to release the Little Red Sled level editor?

[nattylux]

Woot! Kraken Atoll is finally approved! You can get it now from the Get More Maps menu for 99c.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs558.ash1/32527_397785477140_197189117140_3987675_4302172_n. jpg

Harbor Master is simply awesome on the iPad. The pirate level is very challenging and I can't wait to get the sea monster level when it becomes available. And Imangi proves it is possible to have an iPhone version and a separate iPad version without plastering a big, ugly "HD" across the game's icon. I wish other developers would also adopt this practice. Everything is "HD" this and "HD" that. Just because something is on the iPad does not mean it is "HD".

With that being said, I will go back to patiently waiting for geoSpark HD :p:D

Aww thanks so much! We love the symmetry of the icon, so we didn't want to paste anything on it. In fact, we'll probably update the lite version and take the Lite out of the icon.

No updates on geoSpark yet, but I'll definitely post back if we have news.

Hey Imangi, love your games so much I want more. And I was wondering if you are ever going to release the Little Red Sled level editor?

Thanks! You're awesome :) I don't think we'll be releasing a Little Red Sled level editor, though. We barely had a level editor for ourselves when we were making the levels, so it was a ridiculously painstaking process to make the levels by hand. Lots of manually entering coordinates for trees :)

[heffdog116]

WOW. my new favorite map! Looks amazing and definitely adds a unique twist. Congrats

[nattylux]

WOW. my new favorite map! Looks amazing and definitely adds a unique twist. Congrats

Thanks! I love the look of this one too. Very spooky. And the land configuration definitely makes it challenging, since that channel gets very crowded.

[nattylux]

The next level is almost ready! The busy industrial port in Cargo City has six docks and three cargo colors, and it will fulfill all your Harbor Master dreams (and nightmares). Just adding that one extra cargo color makes complexity explode. You guys will love it.

Coming this Friday!

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs298.snc3/28577_402096462140_197189117140_4094788_3016057_n. jpg

[Chod]

Awesome, this looks great. Thanks for the updates and keep them coming!

[LordGek]

Beautiful map!

So will we get to deal with random dock worker strikes?

[nattylux]

Awesome, this looks great. Thanks for the updates and keep them coming!

Thanks! Going to take a little break after this one since we're going to WWDC, but then we'll get back to it :)

Beautiful map!

So will we get to deal with random dock worker strikes?

Haha - that's an awesome idea. We were thinking of adding some complicating factor to this map, but honestly, after we played it for a while, we realized that just having the 3 colors there was enough complexity. It's weird, but I actually feel additional parts of my brain turning on when the multi-color cargo comes in on this one. Or maybe I've just been playing too much Compression...

[The prez 12521]

Thanks! Going to take a little break after this one since we're going to WWDC, but then we'll get back to it :)



Haha - that's an awesome idea. We were thinking of adding some complicating factor to this map, but honestly, after we played it for a while, we realized that just having the 3 colors there was enough complexity. It's weird, but I actually feel additional parts of my brain turning on when the multi-color cargo comes in on this one. Or maybe I've just been playing too much Compression...

SWEET! How is MA doing?

[evanmav]

are u guys gonna make any more maps available for the iphone/ipod touch app of Harbor master?!?! I dont have an ipad and have been an avid fan since day one and really want more maps!

[nattylux]

SWEET! How is MA doing?

Thanks! We're working hard on Max. Made some good progress with the story, and Kiril, our artist, has been making some cool new art for us. Maybe I'll post up some screenshots today, if Keith lets me.

are u guys gonna make any more maps available for the iphone/ipod touch app of Harbor master?!?! I dont have an ipad and have been an avid fan since day one and really want more maps!

Yes! Absolutely. We wanted to make a bunch of maps for Harbor Master HD first just so it feels complete as a game, since we had to rush and release it as a single map, but we definitely have plans to make some updates to the iPhone version this summer. In fact, working on the HD version really got our ideas flowing for new maps for the iPhone version, so we'll have some cool stuff coming soon.

[nattylux]

A pretty amazing statistic I just had to share. Apple announced on Monday that it sold 2 million iPads. Well, we've had a bit over 200,000 downloads of Harbor Master HD.

Which means that 10% of all iPad owners have downloaded Harbor Master HD :eek:

That's an incredible number, and we're totally blown away. Thanks to all of you who got it and played it and told your friends. You guys rock :)

[Deth4U2]

Harbor Master HD was the first thing I downloaded onto my iPad on 4/3. :D Still kicks my butt though.

[heffdog116]

Its almost Friday. Where is map at? Cannot wait

[nattylux]

Cargo City is available now! Just go to Get More Maps from the game, and it's available for 99c as usual. Have fun!

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs298.snc3/28577_402096462140_197189117140_4094788_3016057_n. jpg


Harbor Master HD was the first thing I downloaded onto my iPad on 4/3. :D Still kicks my butt though.

Wow, thanks! It's definitely tougher on iPad - so many boats to keep track of! I love the challenge, though.

Its almost Friday. Where is map at? Cannot wait

Good timing :) Hope you like it!

[Deth4U2]

It is definitely a wicked cool game. Will be picking up the new map ASAP. My 5 year old is very interested in helping me game on my iPad; I think I'll show him this game tonight (he was having fun forcing me to die in DizzyPad last night :) ).

[heffdog116]

Just got the map. Beautiful. Easy at first but once the multi colored ships come along, all hell breaks loose. I am currently in the top ten with 80, but how the heck does the #1 player have 900+ already? Crazy

[LordGek]

Just got the map. Beautiful. Easy at first but once the multi colored ships come along, all he'll breaks loose. I am currently in the top ten with 80, but how the heck does the #1 player have 900+ already? Crazy

Exactly what I was going to add. I love the concept of ships with mixed cargo but it requires a complete mental reset as now it is no longer simply find a free port; unload; send off but a unload her, and maybe some over there before you can take off. ;)

[nattylux]

It is definitely a wicked cool game. Will be picking up the new map ASAP. My 5 year old is very interested in helping me game on my iPad; I think I'll show him this game tonight (he was having fun forcing me to die in DizzyPad last night :) ).

Awww cute! I'm sure he'll love drawing the lines. Our nieces and nephews love that. Although their love for drawing overly complicated paths kind of gets in the way of, say, not crashing boats :)

Love DizzyPad too. Sliders mode is super addictive.

Just got the map. Beautiful. Easy at first but once the multi colored ships come along, all hell breaks loose. I am currently in the top ten with 80, but how the heck does the #1 player have 900+ already? Crazy

80! I need to step up my game, I keep getting stuck in the 60s.

And yeah, some of the high scores online are nuts. Some people are ridiculously good. Somebody recently got 11,219 (!!!) on Treasure Island. Looks legit. We emailed him for his tricks of the trade :) No response yet.

Exactly what I was going to add. I love the concept of ships with mixed cargo but it requires a complete mental reset as now it is no longer simply find a free port; unload; send off but a unload her, and maybe some over there before you can take off. ;)

Yes, it does play very differently! It so interesting when a tiny change totally changes the gameplay.

Oh, and as to your PM question - we've actually set it up so that we can add levels without doing an update. We just need to upload them on our server. The last level (Kraken) coming out during an update was just a coincidence. The update did some other stuff (lots of bug fixes), and Kraken was just from our server.

For Cargo City, we only finished it 2 days ago, so we held off until Friday to release so that people have the full week to play Kraken Atoll.

[LordGek]

Oh, and as to your PM question - we've actually set it up so that we can add levels without doing an update. We just need to upload them on our server. The last level (Kraken) coming out during an update was just a coincidence. The update did some other stuff (lots of bug fixes), and Kraken was just from our server.

For Cargo City, we only finished it 2 days ago, so we held off until Friday to release so that people have the full week to play Kraken Atoll.


Oh how extremely cool! I was starting to think IAPs were just cute gimmicks to unlock already existing content in a game (just not accessible until unlocked) but you guys then stand as proof that you really can have entirely new downloadable content as an IAP! :D

[nattylux]

Oh how extremely cool! I was starting to think IAPs were just cute gimmicks to unlock already existing content in a game (just not accessible until unlocked) but you guys then stand as proof that you really can have entirely new downloadable content as an IAP! :D

Thanks! It's nice to be able to release it without having to wait for review. Although it's pretty weird - we DO have to get reviewed for the "IAP product," since it gets purchased through Apple, but the product really has no content other than a screenshot and description. The actual content is only on our server. Fortunately, we submitted the IAP Product for review long in advance, so it was already approved when we made the map live from our side.

That's probably way more detail than you wanted to know :p

Oh, and we owe a huge thanks to David Whatley (geoDefense) for giving us his IAP code. That saved us a ton of time in implementation.

[Deth4U2]

That's cool that you developers are helping each other out like that. geoDefense is the game that sucked me into the tower defense genre last Summer. :)

[TheClaff]

Love the new maps ESP the direction with the kraken adding new gameplay elements. Have you guys thought about adding some animated elements to take advantage of the bigger screen? Clouds passing by, water slightly moving, smoke from buildings. Would really add to the atmosphere I think.

[ImNoSuperMan]

What's New in Version 1.2.3
This update fixes a number of small bugs to keep the game running smoothly. Specifically:

- Upgraded Twitter API to support xAuth. To tweet your score at the end of a game, just click on the little blue bird!

- Fixed a bug that caused ships to get stuck on the corners of the screen in Cargo City.

- Added a reminder that purchasing any map will disable all ads. Harbor Master HD has always been free and we need to show ads to keep it that way. But we will never show you any ads if you buy additional maps. Thanks for your support!

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

There are now 3 maps available for purchase through the Get More Maps menu. Check them out!

- Cargo City
- Kraken Atoll
- Pirate Passage

More maps are coming very soon! If you have ideas for maps or just want to chat about Harbor Master, join our Facebook group - we'd love to hear from you.

http://www.facebook.com/HarborMasterGame

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

[nattylux]

Working on a new map right now. It's called Bermuda Triangle. As the name implies, all sorts of crazy goes down on this level :eek:

[heffdog116]

Working on a new map right now. It's called Bermuda Triangle. As the name implies, all sorts of crazy goes down on this level :eek:

Will this map be another $.99? Dont get me wrong, i love this app, but i have already plunked down $1.99 on the iPhone version and $3 for all of the maps in the HD version. Maybe one more freebie for us loyal customers? :D

[LordGek]

Will this map be another $.99? Dont get me wrong, i love this app, but i have already plunked down $1.99 on the iPhone version and $3 for all of the maps in the HD version. Maybe one more freebie for us loyal customers? :D

I hear you but wonder how that could work?

Could the purchase price of a DLC be set to free for 6 hours (announced here ahead of time, of course)? Some one time thing that only those who know here can snag without screwing up the rest of your sales too much (hopefully)?

Something you could just do once every 3-4 maps so us fanatical get a little bit of a reward for our fanaticism. ;)

[nattylux]

@heffdog @LordGek Hmm we'll have to think about a pricing model. Maybe we could bundle them into packs somehow. Not sure how that would work.

For each of these levels, we get a huge spike of purchases on the first day, so it doesn't really make sense for us to make it free on the first day.

We'll think about it.

[LordGek]

@heffdog @LordGek Hmm we'll have to think about a pricing model. Maybe we could bundle them into packs somehow. Not sure how that would work.

For each of these levels, we get a huge spike of purchases on the first day, so it doesn't really make sense for us to make it free on the first day.

We'll think about it.

Okay, good point. A bundle pack would be nice for others but not good for us faithful.

Okay, if considering that "freebie" thinking simply move it out a few days...but then that means the TAers that want to get this deal can't hype it for you on day 1 but at least if there are some who really want that deal they'd have the option.

So a not very advertised freebie of very short duration a little bit after the initial spike. :)

(if it is of any consolation, I know I myself wouldn't be able to wait that long and would likely purchase the new map immediately anyways)

[jchampl]

How about a classic map pack sale? It's kind of a bummer to not have the maps I enjoyed from the old version. Maybe a halfprice sale on the pack for a couple hours announced here on TA? I gotta be honest I'm nearing the point where I feel like I have spent enough on hm, I feel like flight control is more complete and it includes the old maps as well for a slightly higher price. I don't even care if the old maps are scaled nicely, they should be there though.

[heffdog116]

(if it is of any consolation, I know I myself wouldn't be able to wait that long and would likely purchase the new map immediately anyways)

Completely agree. I always purchase new maps the second they are available, so I will no doubt grab this next one, but will probably have to cut myself off after that :cool:

[nattylux]

Bermuda Triangle!

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs024.ash2/34574_417835882140_197189117140_4471759_230143_n.j pg

Coming this Friday!

This map has it all - monsters, pirates, and cyclones. You guys will love it.

***

Also, since Apple just released their iPad sales numbers, we now know that Harbor Master HD is installed on 1 out of every 8 iPads. That's incredible. Thank you all so much for supporting us and telling your friends. We are so lucky :)

***

Ack, not sure how I missed all these posts. Sorry guys.

We're still not really sure what to do about level packs going forward. When we decided to sell levels one at a time like this, we didn't know how well HMHD would do, how well the levels would do, how many levels we'd make, etc, so we decided to take it one at a time and go from there. Lucky for us, it's done really well. And the levels are also selling really well, so we probably could just keep adding levels at $0.99 each for a long time.

But I see where you're coming from, and we want to think about some ideas for how we can sell content that works better for you. So what would you think of this idea (just brainstorming out loud, nothing is decided yet): what if we made a "premium" version of HMHD that's, say, $4.99. This version would include all the current IAP levels, and free updates for any levels added in the future.

Since some of you guys have already paid a few dollars to get all the current IAP levels, would you want to pay another $5 to get everything in one place and no more IAP? Or would you feel that you don't want to pay again for levels you already bought?

Would love your input on this.

Okay, good point. A bundle pack would be nice for others but not good for us faithful.

Okay, if considering that "freebie" thinking simply move it out a few days...but then that means the TAers that want to get this deal can't hype it for you on day 1 but at least if there are some who really want that deal they'd have the option.

So a not very advertised freebie of very short duration a little bit after the initial spike. :)

(if it is of any consolation, I know I myself wouldn't be able to wait that long and would likely purchase the new map immediately anyways)

Hmm, maybe if we released a premium version we can make it free for a limited time? But then it would be competing with the current free version, which doesn't seem like a good idea...

How about a classic map pack sale? It's kind of a bummer to not have the maps I enjoyed from the old version. Maybe a halfprice sale on the pack for a couple hours announced here on TA? I gotta be honest I'm nearing the point where I feel like I have spent enough on hm, I feel like flight control is more complete and it includes the old maps as well for a slightly higher price. I don't even care if the old maps are scaled nicely, they should be there though.

Really? Maybe we'd include that in the "premium" version if we did that. Although I'm not sure about mixing resolutions like that in one app.

Completely agree. I always purchase new maps the second they are available, so I will no doubt grab this next one, but will probably have to cut myself off after that :cool:

Thanks for purchasing the maps so far :) Would love your input on the "premium" version idea.

[heffdog116]

If a premium app was put out for $5, I would have to decline. Considering I already bought all of the extra maps, plus bought the iPhone version also, I would not sink another $5 on it. I think I will eventually pick up the Bermuda Triangle map, but think I will call it quits after that.

[aelam]

Bermuda Triangle!

*snip*

Coming this Friday!

This map has it all - monsters, pirates, and cyclones. You guys will love it.

***

Also, since Apple just released their iPad sales numbers, we now know that Harbor Master HD is installed on 1 out of every 8 iPads. That's incredible. Thank you all so much for supporting us and telling your friends. We are so lucky :)

***

Ack, not sure how I missed all these posts. Sorry guys.

We're still not really sure what to do about level packs going forward. When we decided to sell levels one at a time like this, we didn't know how well HMHD would do, how well the levels would do, how many levels we'd make, etc, so we decided to take it one at a time and go from there. Lucky for us, it's done really well. And the levels are also selling really well, so we probably could just keep adding levels at $0.99 each for a long time.

But I see where you're coming from, and we want to think about some ideas for how we can sell content that works better for you. So what would you think of this idea (just brainstorming out loud, nothing is decided yet): what if we made a "premium" version of HMHD that's, say, $4.99. This version would include all the current IAP levels, and free updates for any levels added in the future.

Since some of you guys have already paid a few dollars to get all the current IAP levels, would you want to pay another $5 to get everything in one place and no more IAP? Or would you feel that you don't want to pay again for levels you already bought?

Would love your input on this.

You know, I really think people are just belly aching, I wouldn't worry too much. You're following the textbook model of the app store right now, why would you try to change it? You give away the app for free and fuel your revenue through IAP. Guess what other hugely successful app just did this a couple days ago (albeit not permanently)? That's right, probably the best tower defence game "Tower Madness HD". You said so yourself, maps are selling well, you appreciate the business and it's wildly successful. *cue "if it ain't broken, don't fix it"*

I think that trying to split your consumer base into two segments just isn't worth the hassle. How long do you know you'll support this for? What happens when the next iPad comes out? A $5 premium app means that you'll only really save money if you release even more maps prior to technology turnover. For people who already bought all the new maps, buying a premium app needs another 5 maps to recoup costs.

I've purchased all the new maps when available and I will 90% buy Bermuda Triangle (which looks great, I love the Cannons) first thing on Friday.

I know I'm not speaking from the consumer side of things here despite being part of that group, but I just really question your proposed business model. If you really want to just "give back" to the fans, just release the occasional free map/content update.

[LordGek]

Hmm, maybe if we released a premium version we can make it free for a limited time? But then it would be competing with the current free version, which doesn't seem like a good idea...


These folk doing these "Free for a Day" App Events often will have a day of this seeming inconsistency by selling their premium version for 0 for a single day while they've still got their Free/Lite versions out there.

I think the trick would be to make the Premium deally free for 1 day only giving us (and if you post frequently on any other forums) a heads up on the sale date. Since it would be all about timing you might want to pick a date a few days AFTER it finally is released.

Would I pay $5 at this point for unlimited updates? It's a DAMN tough call. On one hand I could see doing it but, being a realist, the Map Party is going to have to end at some point and I'd hate to be the goof that essentially re-purchased the game I already bought all of the maps for only to have you guys release 2 more maps and then move onto Max 2.

How about something tricky (although unfair to non-USers who can't be promoed) like if we can provide you proof of purchase of 5 or more of these IAP maps we are entitled to a free promo to the Premium version in a first come, first serve basis (since these promos are always in a pretty limited supply)?

[JoeAverage]

I don't know if it is technically feasible, but since I can redownload the map packs, can you tell I've bought them all and just upgrade the game to premium?

If you can detect what the user has installed, can you then just flag that accou t as premium?

Pehaps making both available, IAP of premium, or individual packs.

Just spitballing.

Cheers,

Joe

[pluto6]

I always like the idea of purchasing something once at a higher price.

For me, as long as maps were coming out every few months the break even point would be in about a year, and that seems reasonable, as my better games are still going strong more than a year later.

Also, even though I don't like it much, early adopters tend to wind up paying more than those who wait - but ultimately it is those followers that make up the bulk of sales, and I'm sure that if you keep us in mind, at some point there will be ways to " reward" us, though truth be told, having input on games is pretty good.

Bottom line - I would purchase the premium version.

[nattylux]

If a premium app was put out for $5, I would have to decline. Considering I already bought all of the extra maps, plus bought the iPhone version also, I would not sink another $5 on it. I think I will eventually pick up the Bermuda Triangle map, but think I will call it quits after that.

Cool, thanks for your input.

You know, I really think people are just belly aching, I wouldn't worry too much. You're following the textbook model of the app store right now, why would you try to change it? You give away the app for free and fuel your revenue through IAP. Guess what other hugely successful app just did this a couple days ago (albeit not permanently)? That's right, probably the best tower defence game "Tower Madness HD". You said so yourself, maps are selling well, you appreciate the business and it's wildly successful. *cue "if it ain't broken, don't fix it"*

I think that trying to split your consumer base into two segments just isn't worth the hassle. How long do you know you'll support this for? What happens when the next iPad comes out? A $5 premium app means that you'll only really save money if you release even more maps prior to technology turnover. For people who already bought all the new maps, buying a premium app needs another 5 maps to recoup costs.

I've purchased all the new maps when available and I will 90% buy Bermuda Triangle (which looks great, I love the Cannons) first thing on Friday.

I know I'm not speaking from the consumer side of things here despite being part of that group, but I just really question your proposed business model. If you really want to just "give back" to the fans, just release the occasional free map/content update.

Thanks for the support, you're awesome :) Love Tower Madness and the Limbic guys. They're definitely brilliant in their monetization strategies. But it's always good to experiment with new ones to see what works better. Although we'd like to minimize the number of people we anger with our experimentation :)

You're right about the concern about splitting our customer base. That could hurt.

These folk doing these "Free for a Day" App Events often will have a day of this seeming inconsistency by selling their premium version for 0 for a single day while they've still got their Free/Lite versions out there.

I think the trick would be to make the Premium deally free for 1 day only giving us (and if you post frequently on any other forums) a heads up on the sale date. Since it would be all about timing you might want to pick a date a few days AFTER it finally is released.

Would I pay $5 at this point for unlimited updates? It's a DAMN tough call. On one hand I could see doing it but, being a realist, the Map Party is going to have to end at some point and I'd hate to be the goof that essentially re-purchased the game I already bought all of the maps for only to have you guys release 2 more maps and then move onto Max 2.

How about something tricky (although unfair to non-USers who can't be promoed) like if we can provide you proof of purchase of 5 or more of these IAP maps we are entitled to a free promo to the Premium version in a first come, first serve basis (since these promos are always in a pretty limited supply)?

Free for a day on a premium version while having a lite version out is a little different. In most of these cases, the premium version generates the revenue, while the lite version basically advertises the premium version. So it's ok for the lite version to take a temporary hit as they try to promote the paid version.

In our case, the free version is the ONLY version and generates all the revenue. So if we mess that up, we could hurt our bottom line pretty badly.

I don't know if it is technically feasible, but since I can redownload the map packs, can you tell I've bought them all and just upgrade the game to premium?

If you can detect what the user has installed, can you then just flag that accou t as premium?

Pehaps making both available, IAP of premium, or individual packs.

Just spitballing.

Cheers,

Joe

I'm not sure if we could do that. Would require some code trickery.

I always like the idea of purchasing something once at a higher price.

For me, as long as maps were coming out every few months the break even point would be in about a year, and that seems reasonable, as my better games are still going strong more than a year later.

Also, even though I don't like it much, early adopters tend to wind up paying more than those who wait - but ultimately it is those followers that make up the bulk of sales, and I'm sure that if you keep us in mind, at some point there will be ways to " reward" us, though truth be told, having input on games is pretty good.

Bottom line - I would purchase the premium version.

Awesome, thanks.

[jchampl]

Natty I would without a doubt drop 4.99 on a premium, especially if it incorporated the old maps. Flight control HD did it very well, and I think it would work amazing in hmhd. If it incorporated the old maps the 2.97 I spent on the dlc previously I would consider as money I gave to imangi to include the old maps in the premo version. I wouldn't even need it to be free. It would be a day one purchase for me.

[Anngithsachn]

But I see where you're coming from, and we want to think about some ideas for how we can sell content that works better for you. So what would you think of this idea (just brainstorming out loud, nothing is decided yet): what if we made a "premium" version of HMHD that's, say, $4.99. This version would include all the current IAP levels, and free updates for any levels added in the future.

Since some of you guys have already paid a few dollars to get all the current IAP levels, would you want to pay another $5 to get everything in one place and no more IAP? Or would you feel that you don't want to pay again for levels you already bought?

Would love your input on this.



Hmm, maybe if we released a premium version we can make it free for a limited time? But then it would be competing with the current free version, which doesn't seem like a good idea...



Really? Maybe we'd include that in the "premium" version if we did that. Although I'm not sure about mixing resolutions like that in one app.



Thanks for purchasing the maps so far :) Would love your input on the "premium" version idea.

I would buy the premium version. But if there no update for a while, people might think they got cheated - paying twice.

Maybe if you were to hold off on 5 news map and release them at same time or something equal to the price of premium version. Then let the free version people know if you buy the premium version you get free update and the 5 new maps - it like a 1 time membership. If they don't want to upgrade they can still pick and choose which map they want to buy.

P.s. I just notice that there no purple boats in the Bermuda Triangle! I love how you have to from one dock to another. Maybe it just to chaos. Can't wait to try it out.

[Random_Guy]

I wish I had an iPad. :(

[epthegeek]

I just had to register so I could throw in my 2 cents here.

The "Get the base game free and pay for add on maps" model is perfect for Harbor Master - I don't think you guys should mess with it. I think adding a premium version would just confuse things.

Having the extra maps cost a little is a great incentive for the developer to continue to make new maps because that's where the income comes from. Which is great for the players because new content is what keeps a game like Harbor Master fresh.

Being able to pick and choose how you grow your game by getting a new map, or skipping it to wait for whatever is next is great for the consumer. In addition, the consumer gets to decide the value of the game to them. If they're happy with just one map for free, good for them. If they have nothing against paying for every additional new map because they can afford them and think they are worth it - great! And how many and which ones they get is up to the buyer - a la carte, like everyone wishes cable TV would be.

Just to say "man, I already spent $4 on this, I should get a free pass forever" is sort of strange. You knew what the content and cost was going in, you decided it was a worthwhile purchase. Are you really thinking "ok, ok, I'll spend another buck on this but they better pile on freebies later" when you bought the maps? REALLY?

I don't know what the pricing restrictions are on things - but maybe the price of maps could be based on if they ad new gameplay or not. Just a new layout using existing mechanics? Maybe those maps could cost less. Or perhaps as bonus to thank people you could add on a new downloadable map that only works if you've purchased x number of other maps previously.

Anyway, my point is, having a premium version would muck things up I think. Don't let a few complainers make you doubt your choice of pricing model. I think it's a perfect fit.

[LordGek]

I just had to register so I could throw in my 2 cents here.

The "Get the base game free and pay for add on maps" model is perfect for Harbor Master - I don't think you guys should mess with it. I think adding a premium version would just confuse things.

Having the extra maps cost a little is a great incentive for the developer to continue to make new maps because that's where the income comes from. Which is great for the players because new content is what keeps a game like Harbor Master fresh.

Being able to pick and choose how you grow your game by getting a new map, or skipping it to wait for whatever is next is great for the consumer. In addition, the consumer gets to decide the value of the game to them. If they're happy with just one map for free, good for them. If they have nothing against paying for every additional new map because they can afford them and think they are worth it - great! And how many and which ones they get is up to the buyer - a la carte, like everyone wishes cable TV would be.

Just to say "man, I already spent $4 on this, I should get a free pass forever" is sort of strange. You knew what the content and cost was going in, you decided it was a worthwhile purchase. Are you really thinking "ok, ok, I'll spend another buck on this but they better pile on freebies later" when you bought the maps? REALLY?

I don't know what the pricing restrictions are on things - but maybe the price of maps could be based on if they ad new gameplay or not. Just a new layout using existing mechanics? Maybe those maps could cost less. Or perhaps as bonus to thank people you could add on a new downloadable map that only works if you've purchased x number of other maps previously.

Anyway, my point is, having a premium version would muck things up I think. Don't let a few complainers make you doubt your choice of pricing model. I think it's a perfect fit.

No premium but maybe a map pack that includes multiple maps at a slight discount (like 5 maps for $3). Useless to us early adopters but a cool value for those just coming into the fray.

[nattylux]

@jchampl Awesome, thanks for weighing in. That's one vote for premium version...

@Anngithsachn You're right, one problem with doing a premium version is that we'd have to commit ourselves to adding x more maps to it so people feel they are getting their money's worth.

Yeah, just one color of cargo in Bermuda Triangle. Since you have to deal with cyclones, monsters and pirates on this one, it gets very hectic and requires probably the most multitasking of all the maps. Dealing with 2 colors would have just made it too much, so we kept it to one color.

@Random_Guy I <3 my iPad. Any plans for getting one? You'll love it.

@epthegeek Welcome to TA! You'll never leave :) And thanks for the support on our current business model. I think it's working for most people, because we get very few complaints, and a good number of people buying the new maps. Maybe if revenue goes down, we'll explore some level packs.

When I think of my own iTunes consumption habits, we spend an embarrassing amount of money buying TV Show episodes at $2.99 a pop for the HD version. And as long as we like the show, we keep paying for those episodes. By comparison, $.99 for an infinitely replayable HM level every few weeks seems pretty reasonable :)

[Deth4U2]

I like the 99 cent map pack approach. I believe I've bought them all at this point. :D

I think the 99 cent map packs are win-win because I as the consumer get to decide the price of my game (free + however many $1 packs I choose to buy) and you as the developer because you get to keep earning revenue as long as people continue liking your map packs.

This to me should add an incentive to the developer to maintain the game, because you continually receive financial encouragement to do so. If I put out a $5 game and once it fell off the radar I couldn't earn any more revenue from it, how much time will I put into the updates?

[LordGek]

I like the 99 cent map pack approach. I believe I've bought them all at this point. :D

I think the 99 cent map packs are win-win because I as the consumer get to decide the price of my game (free + however many $1 packs I choose to buy) and you as the developer because you get to keep earning revenue as long as people continue liking your map packs.

This to me should add an incentive to the developer to maintain the game, because you continually receive financial encouragement to do so. If I put out a $5 game and once it fell off the radar I couldn't earn any more revenue from it, how much time will I put into the updates?

I got you!

Sure, an upfront charge would potentially get them more money in a big lump sum, this more tiny carrot on the stick will give them incentive to keep things going a lot more. :p

[nattylux]

The Bermuda Triangle map is out! You can get it from the Get More Maps section. Hope you all like it!


***


@Deth4U2 Glad you like how it is! It's definitely true that we have a huge incentive to update the app when we directly get paid for each update. It's also really nice that our IAP updates can pay off regardless of our current position in the charts, because we are monetizing our existing customer base.

@LordGek Yes, hopefully many tiny carrots will add up to a big meal in the long term. As long as we also throw in a steak somewhere ;)

[pluto6]

The Bermuda Triangle map is out! You can get it from the Get More Maps section. Hope you all like it!

@LordGek Yes, hopefully many tiny carrots will add up to a big meal in the long term. As long as we also throw in a steak somewhere ;)

Looking forward to this - and your comment to LG looks a bit like the story "Stone Soup" - I'm hoping that it turns out to be fantastic!

[pluto6]

Have not seen any comments about the Bermuda Triangle map... Where are all the Harbor Master fans?

Anyways - it looks phenomenal, and I am loving it - of course, I never do very well at these, but I still like playing.

Congrats on the artwork. I hope that it does really well.

[LordGek]

Good fun as always but I'll bet I'm not alone when I ask for an Expert Mode (with it's own scoreboards) for all of the maps!

This would just be the equivalent of starting the maps a couple of minutes in (the point all hazards for the map start appearing and full sized ships start coming onto the map).

[pluto6]

Good fun as always but I'll bet I'm not alone when I ask for an Expert Mode (with it's own scoreboards) for all of the maps!

This would just be the equivalent of starting the maps a couple of minutes in (the point all hazards for the map start appearing and full sized ships start coming onto the map).

Great idea - I can always watch a video of other people actually succeeding... :D

But seriously - for people that are better at these games (almost everyone) - that would be a great idea...

[LordGek]

Have not seen any comments about the Bermuda Triangle map... Where are all the Harbor Master fans?

Anyways - it looks phenomenal, and I am loving it - of course, I never do very well at these, but I still like playing.

Congrats on the artwork. I hope that it does really well.

The map kicks the ass!

I love how it is such the smörgåsbord (wow, power to my spell checker as I never knew the word was spelled like THAT!) of all the other map elements.

Trying to think of new map gimmicks...

Okay, something topical, oil slicks!

Not sure how the logic would work but they could appear at random temporarily, really slowing boats down and endangering Schools of Dolphins (a new unit that would spawn in the map at random and you'd receive a point for successfully navigating it out of bay safely without bumping into a ship or oil slick). Letting a school of dolphins won't end the game but will cost you 2 points. There could even be some special Oil Sucking Ship that can suck up one spill before being sent off map.

I'm sure that is waay too much for one map, but please feel free to use any part of that if looking for some fresh ideas in upcoming maps.

[LordGek]

Great idea - I can always watch a video of other people actually succeeding... :D

But seriously - for people that are better at these games (almost everyone) - that would be a great idea...

Don't sell yourself short as I ALSO suck...I just like skipping to the good parts immediately. As it stands by the time things get hairy I'm already starting to lose my focus (ADD or something I'll bet).

[pluto6]

The map kicks the ass!

I love how it is such the smörgåsbord (wow, power to my spell checker as I never knew the word was spelled like THAT!) of all the other map elements.

Trying to think of new map gimmicks...

Okay, something topical, oil slicks!

Not sure how the logic would work but they could appear at random temporarily, really slowing boats down and endangering Schools of Dolphins (a new unit that would spawn in the map at random and you'd receive a point for successfully navigating it out of bay safely without bumping into a ship or oil slick). Letting a school of dolphins won't end the game but will cost you 2 points. There could even be some special Oil Sucking Ship that can suck up one spill before being sent off map.

I'm sure that is waay too much for one map, but please feel free to use any part of that if looking for some fresh ideas in upcoming maps.

It sounds to me as though you live near the Gulf - this oil stuff is near and not so dear to me being in Florida...

[HerbertKornfeld]

Do you know who wants you to release the Premium version? Pirates. And these are the really nasty ones, too; it'll likely take more than a couple of shots from a cannon to take these guys out. And rather than stealing your cargo, these bastards will likely rob you of your gold. With an all-levels premium version, I wouldn't be surprised to see your in-app revenues in sharp decline. So my advice is to stay the course. With in-app purchases, the only pirates that you'll have to deal with are the pixelated kind.

And ignore the freetards here, too. I thought that begging on here for freebies was against the rules, but apparently not. It doesn't make it any less tacky, though.

Dear people trying to put food on the table,

I just bought an iPad for at least $500, but you should give me your game, in full, for free. I deserve it, honest. Sure, you may be on one in eight devices, but if you give it to me for free, I can get you even better numbers.

Sincerely,
Whiny McWhinerson

[nattylux]

Awesome new update coming in a few days!

A lot of players have asked us for something like "lives" over the years. A chance to undo a crash and keep going. So for the next update, we added something really cool: rewinds.

At the end of a game, you can now choose to rewind it, undo the crash, and continue playing. You can only use one rewind in a single game. You start out with a few rewinds you can use, and you earn more by playing more.

The update should be out in a few days.

To answer the common questions:

- There's no score penalty to using a rewind.

- You can only use a rewind ONCE per game.

- No, you can't just rewind every single game. This update will start you off with 5 rewinds you can use. You can earn more by playing more.


*******

Have not seen any comments about the Bermuda Triangle map... Where are all the Harbor Master fans?

Anyways - it looks phenomenal, and I am loving it - of course, I never do very well at these, but I still like playing.

Congrats on the artwork. I hope that it does really well.

Glad you like it! I'll pass along your compliment on the artwork to our awesome artist Kiril. You can follow him on Twitter here (http://twitter.com/kirilot).


The map kicks the ass!

I love how it is such the smörgåsbord (wow, power to my spell checker as I never knew the word was spelled like THAT!) of all the other map elements.

Trying to think of new map gimmicks...

Okay, something topical, oil slicks!

Not sure how the logic would work but they could appear at random temporarily, really slowing boats down and endangering Schools of Dolphins (a new unit that would spawn in the map at random and you'd receive a point for successfully navigating it out of bay safely without bumping into a ship or oil slick). Letting a school of dolphins won't end the game but will cost you 2 points. There could even be some special Oil Sucking Ship that can suck up one spill before being sent off map.

I'm sure that is waay too much for one map, but please feel free to use any part of that if looking for some fresh ideas in upcoming maps.

Haha you have no idea how many times this summer we've jokingly proposed making an oil slick map. But then we'd realize that it would be sad for our fun little game to be associated with something sad. So we'll leave HM untainted, as it were. Would be cool to work in dolphins somehow, though... And we even saw dolphins this weekend while at the beach in Delaware!

Don't sell yourself short as I ALSO suck...I just like skipping to the good parts immediately. As it stands by the time things get hairy I'm already starting to lose my focus (ADD or something I'll bet).

It sounds to me as though you live near the Gulf - this oil stuff is near and not so dear to me being in Florida...

Exactly.

Do you know who wants you to release the Premium version? Pirates. And these are the really nasty ones, too; it'll likely take more than a couple of shots from a cannon to take these guys out. And rather than stealing your cargo, these bastards will likely rob you of your gold. With an all-levels premium version, I wouldn't be surprised to see your in-app revenues in sharp decline. So my advice is to stay the course. With in-app purchases, the only pirates that you'll have to deal with are the pixelated kind.

And ignore the freetards here, too. I thought that begging on here for freebies was against the rules, but apparently not. It doesn't make it any less tacky, though.

Hahahah thanks for the encouragement. We'll stay the course for a while.

Also, Herbert Kornfield is my homeboy.

http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/365235/herbert_kornfeld.jpg

[LordGek]

@Nattylux
The rewind sounds fun but PLEASE be careful...I almost smell future DLC..

Tired of all that WORK required to earn a "Rewind"? For just $1 you can get a pack of 10! :rolleyes:

[ImNoSuperMan]

Awesome new update coming in a few days!


Lies!!!

Its out already. In just about 24 hours of your post :p

What's New In Version 1.3
Did you ever have an amazing game, only to have boats crash just when you're about to beat your high score? Ever wish you could just rewind that moment and continue the game?

Now you can.

At the end of a game, you can now choose to rewind it, undo the crash, and continue playing. You can only use one rewind in a single game. You start out with a few rewinds you can use, and you earn more by playing more.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

There are now 4 maps available for purchase through the Get More Maps menu. Check them out!

- Bermuda Triangle
- Cargo City
- Kraken Atoll
- Pirate Passage

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

[nattylux]

Lies!!!

Its out already. In just about 24 hours of your post :p

Ya, super-fast approval by Apple this time! Would love to hear what you guys think!

[farley]

Dunno if I'm alone in this thought, and maybe I'm a dumb schmuck for saying this, but I find it really difficult to choose which Harbor Master map to play because I don't know what map I'm in the mood to play.
I would much rather have the game choose a map for me.
What I mean is, I'd love to have a "Play Random Map" button on the screen, and then I would only ever tap this button.
Who else thinks the same? (Please, say it's not just me! :p)

[ataloss]

Not a bad idea, but it got me thinking. How about a daily challenge? Achieve X amount on map Y? And an associated leaderboard to show who achieved or exceeded that target? ;)

[nattylux]

Hey guys, we just fixed a bug in the Bermuda Triangle map! To get the updated map, just reinstall it from the Get More Maps menu (you won't be charged again).

Thanks to everyone who pointed out the bug, by the way. Large ships used to get stuck in some docks after a monster just visited it. All fixed now :)

Dunno if I'm alone in this thought, and maybe I'm a dumb schmuck for saying this, but I find it really difficult to choose which Harbor Master map to play because I don't know what map I'm in the mood to play.
I would much rather have the game choose a map for me.
What I mean is, I'd love to have a "Play Random Map" button on the screen, and then I would only ever tap this button.
Who else thinks the same? (Please, say it's not just me! :p)

You're definitely not alone here. A few people have suggested this. Would be great to implement.

Not a bad idea, but it got me thinking. How about a daily challenge? Achieve X amount on map Y? And an associated leaderboard to show who achieved or exceeded that target? ;)

That's also an awesome idea. So many great ideas, so little time...:)

[ataloss]

So many great ideas, so little time...:)

...better than the other way round... ;)

[nattylux]

Haha very true, this is a good problem to have. We have a list 10 miles long of things we want to do for Harbor Master, and we have to do different things for the 3 versions - Harbor Master HD, Harbor Master for iPhone, and Harbor Master Lite - and we kind of have to finish our other game, Max Adventure (http://forums.toucharcade.com/showthread.php?t=53476), at some point. With only 3 of us, it always takes a while to get to those great ideas on the list.

[CzarCastic]

I keep deleting this game from my iPad, then later finding a way to put it back on. Here's the problem, as I see it. I really like this game. I feel like I want to buy the DLC maps, but there's one thing keeping me from pulling the trigger and that is the fact that the devs have previously mentioned some sort of change to the pricing structure that could potentially bring a means to buy a more expensive version of the game with all DLC included. So now, I'm kind of stuck in the middle. On the one hand, I want to play the new maps. On the other, I'm tired of getting burned by app store sales and developers that constantly change the pricing model for their games. That's not to say the same thing will happen here. It's just that I'm a bit gunshy when it comes to any hint of a possible sale or game released by a developer with a history of lowering prices. This opinion obviously has been created based on the complete lack of planning by 90% of the developers out there. I would really feel much better about the situation if I could get some sort of reassurance from the dev that no price structure changes are in the works.

[pluto6]

I keep deleting this game from my iPad, then later finding a way to put it back on. Here's the problem, as I see it. I really like this game. I feel like I want to buy the DLC maps, but there's one thing keeping me from pulling the trigger and that is the fact that the devs have previously mentioned some sort of change to the pricing structure that could potentially bring a means to buy a more expensive version of the game with all DLC included. So now, I'm kind of stuck in the middle. On the one hand, I want to play the new maps. On the other, I'm tired of getting burned by app store sales and developers that constantly change the pricing model for their games. That's not to say the same thing will happen here. It's just that I'm a bit gunshy when it comes to any hint of a possible sale or game released by a developer with a history of lowering prices. This opinion obviously has been created based on the complete lack of planning by 90% of the developers out there. I would really feel much better about the situation if I could get some sort of reassurance from the dev that no price structure changes are in the works.


I don't think that they will be able to give you that - although some of Natty's answers make you think "yes" when she is actually writing "no"... I think she is destined for politics some day..

But, my take on the whole price changing thread is that it ain't broke, so there is no need to fix it - plus many of the "fixes" actually make things much worse publicity wise... So, if HM is failing, and the App store has major changes in how it runs, then there will no doubt be significant changes - but I think that for the forseeable future (6-12 months) there probably won't be any price structure changes... So, buy some maps and enjoy.... and if everything changes in 6 months - hopefully you would have felt you got more than your money's worth!

[CzarCastic]

But, my take on the whole price changing thread is that it ain't broke, so there is no need to fix it - plus many of the "fixes" actually make things much worse publicity wise... So, if HM is failing, and the App store has major changes in how it runs, then there will no doubt be significant changes - but I think that for the forseeable future (6-12 months) there probably won't be any price structure changes... So, buy some maps and enjoy.... and if everything changes in 6 months - hopefully you would have felt you got more than your money's worth!

Yeah, I know that this is probably my only option too.

[pluto6]

Yeah, I know that this is probably my only option too.

And the Bermuda Triangle map is FANTASTIC!!!!

[nattylux]

@CzarCastic

Glad you're having fun with the game! As pluto6 eloquently explained, I certainly can't guarantee that things will stay the same forever. The app store may change, the popularity of the app may change, new technologies/monetizations possibilities can come up, our circumstances may change, we may buy EA and have to take their opinions into account, etc.

But the pricing ideas I was throwing out earlier was really just me thinking out loud. We're not working on any new business model at the moment, and given our schedule, we probably won't work on any for at least the next 3 months.

So.. I guess if you want probabilities, I'd say it's over 90% probability that the pricing model won't change in the next 3 months :) After that, it's anybody's guess.

I don't think that they will be able to give you that - although some of Natty's answers make you think "yes" when she is actually writing "no"... I think she is destined for politics some day..

But, my take on the whole price changing thread is that it ain't broke, so there is no need to fix it - plus many of the "fixes" actually make things much worse publicity wise... So, if HM is failing, and the App store has major changes in how it runs, then there will no doubt be significant changes - but I think that for the forseeable future (6-12 months) there probably won't be any price structure changes... So, buy some maps and enjoy.... and if everything changes in 6 months - hopefully you would have felt you got more than your money's worth!

Haha - being in politics would be a special kind of hell for me, so no thank you. You actually explained it very well - the market is evolving so quickly that things can change dramatically from month to month, so we can guarantee very little. On top of that, we just don't plan all that much. We generally have a loose idea of what we're doing for the next 3 months or so, but no more than that. And sometimes we just do something completely spur of the moment. Case in point - we didn't decide to even do Harbor Master for iPad until 10 days before iPad apps were due. Keith had the awesome idea of making a one-level free version, scrambled like crazy, and put the whole thing together in 10 days. That came out of nowhere.

And glad you like Bermuda! That's the one I made :D

[farley]

@Nattylux
The rewind sounds fun but PLEASE be careful...I almost smell future DLC..

Tired of all that WORK required to earn a "Rewind"? For just $1 you can get a pack of 10! :rolleyes:

Well done Nostradamus! ;)
You win a prize for correctly predicting the future. An update that implements just this is now out - although you only get 5 for your Dollar.
Here comes the "buy your way up the leaderboards" people... Sigh... :(

[Toytek]

... This opinion obviously has been created based on the complete lack of planning by 90% of the developers out there. I would really feel much better about the situation if I could get some sort of reassurance from the dev that no price structure changes are in the works.

Price restructuring is inevitable, as is adding new content and further developing the game to make it successful and with a pricing model that works for that particular game.

Almost all the games developers are independent and without big financial backing So the full end product is very unlikely to be shipped first time. So you won't get the final payment structure in place before the game is at the stage to support it.

If you like the company and the game just support them it's only a few quid!

[kshep]

Well done Nostradamus! ;)
You win a prize for correctly predicting the future. An update that implements just this is now out - although you only get 5 for your Dollar.
Here comes the "buy your way up the leaderboards" people... Sigh... :(

You can't 'buy your way up the leaderboards'. Buying rewinds doesn't give you any advantage over people that don't buy rewinds. You still earn rewinds just by playing and everyone can still only use one per game.

[LordGek]

You can't 'buy your way up the leaderboards'. Buying rewinds doesn't give you any advantage over people that don't buy rewinds. You still earn rewinds just by playing and everyone can still only use one per game.

I like that you limit it to 1 per game but if you WANTED to keep everything nice and above board you could simply have two leaderboards per map, Pure and Rewound scores...but here is my next prediction...you'll have no interest/incentive to do so. :(

Starting with Parachute Panic as one of the first examples of a game allowing players to buy lives to boost their way up the leaderboards, the devs have always claimed this is not about buying your way up the leaderboard but at the same time not willing to do anything to distinguish the enhanced from normal games so that those using the crutch can't be distinguished from those doing it the old fashioned way.

While I think Mega Jump has gone a bit on the darkside with all of its means to perk up your score via DLCs, they at least have the decency to keep the scores of those using continues separate from those who don't.

So, Imangi, are you willing to keep the pure and rewound scores separate?

[LordVader]

What's new

If you love using rewinds and want to get them faster, you can now buy them in the Get More Maps store, in addition to earning them as usual.

Not sure what rewinds are? Try tapping on the golden rewind arrow at the end of a game!

We also fixed a couple of bugs:

- Ads were still appearing for a small number of players who paid for additional maps. That should not be happening any more. If you're still seeing this problem, email us at support@imangistudios.com, and we'll help you out.

- Fixed a small bug in the Bermuda Triangle map where a ship would get stuck in a dock. If you're having this problem, just re-download the Bermuda Triangle map.






Just in case anyone wanted to know the specifics.

[nattylux]

Hey guys,

If any of you own the Bermuda Triangle map, you should re-download it from the Get More Maps store (you won't be charged again). We fixed a bad bug - if you haven't seen it yet, you'll see it when you get 4.2 and you get only green boats coming in and only orange docks to put them in :)

[LordGek]

Hey guys,

If any of you own the Bermuda Triangle map, you should re-download it from the Get More Maps store (you won't be charged again). We fixed a bad bug - if you haven't seen it yet, you'll see it when you get 4.2 and you get only green boats coming in and only orange docks to put them in :)

Well, dang, if that isn't incentive to update, I don't know what is!

So when is iOS 4.2 expected to hit at this point?

[nattylux]

I think they said sometime in November?

[pluto6]

Well, dang, if that isn't incentive to update, I don't know what is!

So when is iOS 4.2 expected to hit at this point?

I am using a beta and they turned the hardware scroll lock switch into a mute switch. How stupid is that. You have go into the multitask menu to do a software scroll lock now. Sorry for the rant, especially in the HM thread.

[nattylux]

I am using a beta and they turned the hardware scroll lock switch into a mute switch. How stupid is that. You have go into the multitask menu to do a software scroll lock now. Sorry for the rant, especially in the HM thread.

Yeah, I'm not excited about that. I think they goofed on release by making that button an orientation lock, because I kept wanting to use it as a mute key. And then when everyone finally gotten used to using that as an orientation lock, they change it back. Bad idea.

Ideally, they really should have released it with two buttons. But we know how Apple feels about adding more buttons to things...

[Fleabag323]

Yeah, I'm not excited about that. I think they goofed on release by making that button an orientation lock, because I kept wanting to use it as a mute key. And then when everyone finally gotten used to using that as an orientation lock, they change it back. Bad idea.

Ideally, they really should have released it with two buttons. But we know how Apple feels about adding more buttons to things...

Mute is fine though, since if you just hold the down volume button, it turns down about two, then mutes.

[LordGek]

Mute is fine though, since if you just hold the down volume button, it turns down about two, then mutes.

Yeah, that deeks me every time.

[LordGek]

So what is the consensus on being able to buy rewinds? I say it feels ooky and better explains why earning them naturally is hard.

I think the concept of rewinds is cool but if Imangi wants to PROVE they're above board, how about separate leaderboards for "rewound enhanced" and natural scores?

[ImNoSuperMan]

iOS 4.2 Update..

What's New in Version 1.5
Added multitasking and fast app-switching support.

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Thanks for all your great reviews! Reviews get reset with every update, so if you can update your review or leave us a new one with this update, that would be great!

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Join Harbor Master on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HarborMasterGame

Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/imangi

Thanks for all your support!

Keith and Natalia

[Qordobo]

There's something I don't understand in this game, why very often I guide a boat to a dock and it reach it and left it without to discharge the cargo???

[Bytebrain]

There's something I don't understand in this game, why very often I guide a boat to a dock and it reach it and left it without to discharge the cargo???

Pay attention to what colour the ships cargo has.
If you direct a ship with yellow cargo at a different colour harbour it will leave without discharging the cargo.

Later in the levels you'll have ships with different colour cargos which will have to enter 2 different colour harbours.
That is the beauty of this game, and one of the things that sets it apart from games like Flight Path.

[hellboy8x]

It looks nice but you need to have more map for player choice :)

[nattylux]

It looks nice but you need to have more map for player choice :)

Well, it *is* free ;)

[Qordobo]

Pay attention to what colour the ships cargo has.
If you direct a ship with yellow cargo at a different colour harbour it will leave without discharging the cargo.

Later in the levels you'll have ships with different colour cargos which will have to enter 2 different colour harbours.
That is the beauty of this game, and one of the things that sets it apart from games like Flight Path.
Wooo too late I deleted it from my iPad. But also I really wonder what different colors there was, for me it was all sort of red/brown. :D What's weird is that I didn't noticed this detail in the little help, as it is certainly here. :eek:

Clear green, blue, red, yellow, here what should have been the colors instead of sticking to a reduced palette to favoring some supposed aesthetic or fake realism.

Ha well thanks for the help, I'll have to reinstall the game and try quote that color thing.

[nattylux]

Wooo too late I deleted it from my iPad. But also I really wonder what different colors there was, for me it was all sort of red/brown. :D What's weird is that I didn't noticed this detail in the little help, as it is certainly here. :eek:

Clear green, blue, red, yellow, here what should have been the colors instead of sticking to a reduced palette to favoring some supposed aesthetic or fake realism.

Ha well thanks for the help, I'll have to reinstall the game and try quote that color thing.

Hm, sorry you had trouble with the colors. We chose the colors specifically so they would be easy to tell apart. We couldn't use green and red because many people are green/red colorblind, so that's a nono. That's why we went for purple and bright orange, and also threw in green as a third color on Cargo City.

Let me know if the colors make more sense once you reinstall now that you know about the color difference.

Oh, and I think the ship has sailed (haha) on "fake realism," unless you were ever able to dock a giant cargo ship by drawing a line on the water in real life. Realism isn't really what we're going for.

[Touchgamer3g]

Which in-app purchasable map (or 2) are the best?

[nattylux]

We just added Game Center to Harbor Master HD. 6 Leaderboards and 30 achievements. Hope you guys like it!

[Moink]

Game center, cool :) love This game, I have it on both iPad and iPhone.

Here are some possible bugs:
1. I have bought all the maps, but after the Update, I get an ad when i pause the game or when i die.

2. On "Bermuda Triangle" I get green ships, but there are only orange docks. This is not new to this update.

[nattylux]

Game center, cool :) love This game, I have it on both iPad and iPhone.

Here are some possible bugs:
1. I have bought all the maps, but after the Update, I get an ad when i pause the game or when i die.

2. On "Bermuda Triangle" I get green ships, but there are only orange docks. This is not new to this update.

Thanks, glad you like the game! The first bug is really strange - I haven't heard of that happening, and you definitely shouldn't be seeing ads if you paid for any maps. Email me at support at imangi dot com, and we'll try to figure it out.

As far as the Bermuda Triangle issue, just reinstall the Bermuda Triangle map off the Get More Maps store, and that will fix it.

[Moink]

Thanks, glad you like the game! The first bug is really strange - I haven't heard of that happening, and you definitely shouldn't be seeing ads if you paid for any maps. Email me at support at imangi dot com, and we'll try to figure it out.

As far as the Bermuda Triangle issue, just reinstall the Bermuda Triangle map off the Get More Maps store, and that will fix it.

Thanks for the response :)
I used the restore utility, and now Bermuda Triangle works, no more green ships :) and I tried pausing the game, no more ads.
So it seem that fixed it all, keep up the good work.