Gaming
ZYNGA ANNOUNCES FOURTH QUARTER AND FULL YEAR 2021 FINANCIAL RESULTS

Zynga Inc. released financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2021.
“Our strong Q4 results capped off our record 2021 performance where we delivered our highest annual revenue and bookings ever, while reaching the largest mobile audience in Zynga history,” said Frank Gibeau, CEO of Zynga. “I am proud of our team’s execution across all aspects of our growth strategy including live services, new game development and investments in our advertising platform, new markets and technologies to solidify Zynga as a leading mobile-first, free-to-play live services company.”
Fourth Quarter 2021 Financial Summary

• Revenue & Bookings: We achieved record Q4 revenue of $695 million, an increase of 13% year-over-year, and our best-ever quarterly bookings of $727 million, up 4% year-over-year. Online game or user pay revenue was $534 million, up 7% year-over-year, and user pay bookings were $555 million, down 5% year-over-year. Advertising & other revenue was a quarterly record of $161 million, up 37% year-over-year, and advertising & other bookings were an all-time best of $171 million, up 46% year-over-year.
• Audience Metrics: Average mobile daily active users (DAUs) were 37 million, up 3% year-over-year, and average mobile monthly active users (MAUs) were 184 million, up 38% year-over-year. Mobile average bookings per mobile DAU (ABPU) of $0.204 decreased by 1% year-over-year.
• Costs & Expenses: Cost of revenue was $260 million or 37% of revenue, compared to 41% of revenue in the year-ago quarter. Non-GAAP cost of revenue was $194 million or 27% of bookings, down from 28% of bookings in the year-ago quarter. GAAP operating expenses were $437 million, representing 63% of revenue and an improvement from 64% in the year-ago quarter. Non-GAAP operating expenses of $357 million represented 49% of bookings, versus 47% in the year-ago quarter.
• Profitability & Cash Flow: Net loss was $67 million, compared to $53 million in the year-ago quarter, and adjusted EBITDA was $147 million, up $57 million year-over-year. We generated operating cash flow of $158 million, down $48 million year-over-year.
2021 Annual Financial Summary

• Revenue & Bookings: We achieved our highest-ever annual revenue of $2,801 million, an increase of 42% year-over-year, and our best-ever annual bookings of $2,826 million, up 24% year-over-year. Online game revenue was a record $2,249 million, up 35% year-over-year, and user pay bookings were a record $2,265 million, up 15% year-over-year. Advertising & other revenue was a record $551 million, up 79% year-over-year, and advertising & other bookings were a record $561 million, up 83% year-over-year.
• Audience Metrics: Record annual average mobile DAUs were 39 million, up 41% year-over-year, and all-time best annual average mobile MAUs were 184 million, up 107% year-over-year. Annual mobile ABPU of $0.194 decreased by 12% year-over-year.
• Costs & Expenses: Cost of revenue was $1,015 million or 36% of revenue, compared to 41% of revenue in the prior year. Non-GAAP cost of revenue was $787 million or 28% of bookings, down from 30% of bookings in the prior year. GAAP operating expenses were $1,730 million, representing 62% of revenue and a significant improvement from 78% in the prior year. Non-GAAP operating expenses of $1,386 million represented 49% of bookings versus 46% in the prior year.
• Profitability & Cash Flow: Net loss was $104 million, an improvement of $325 million year-over-year, and adjusted EBITDA was $641 million, up $374 million year-over-year. We generated operating cash flow of $254 million, down $176 million year-over-year, and ended the year with approximately $1.2 billion in cash and investments.
Due to the pending transaction with Take-Two Interactive Software announced on January 10, 2022, Zynga is not hosting a conference call or providing forward guidance in connection with the release of its quarterly results.
Please refer to the original press release announcing the pending transaction with Take-Two Interactive Software here: https://investor.zynga.com/news-releases/news-release-details/take-two-and-zynga-combine-bringing-together-best-class.
Gaming
Fourth Star Launches Immersive Media Streaming Platform

Fourth Star, the cutting-edge virtual reality immersive media streaming platform, is officially available to the public. This innovative platform transforms traditional entertainment by enabling users to seamlessly watch standard 2D, 180 and 360 immersive media content and movies. Fourth Star redefines how audiences engage with immersive storytelling, offering an unparalleled first-person centric perspective on entertainment.
“Fourth Star is more than just a platform – it’s a revolution in entertainment,” said Greg Simon, Co-Founder & CEO of Fourth Star. “We’ve created an immersive experience where users can not only consume content but also actively participate in it. Our vision is to transform how people experience media content and movies in a way that has never been done before.”
A New Era of Interactive Entertainment
The largest immersive media streaming platform available on Sidequest, users can explore nearly forty unique environments, interact with AI-driven crew, and experience entertainment in an entirely new way. Fourth Star offers a groundbreaking approach to digital engagement, whether socializing in the Cafe, customizing avatars in private Apartments or Ships, or stepping directly into a movie’s storyline.
“The combination of VR, AI, and blockchain in Fourth Star sets a new standard for immersive entertainment,” said Craig Wiltshire, CTO of Fourth Star. “Our vision is to seamlessly integrate all three technologies into the user experience. We are redefining the entertainment experience from passive observation to active creation.”
Built for Content Partners
Fourth Star is a self-serve platform designed for content partners of all sizes, from individual creators to blockbuster studios. Content partners can set up an account, create content channels, and begin monetizing their work immediately. No integration is required, allowing for seamless onboarding and instant access to a global audience. The Creator Portal empowers partners to distribute and profit from their immersive media with ease, making Fourth Star a truly open and accessible metaverse for digital entertainment.
Key Features of Fourth Star
- VR Streaming Platform – Users can access nearly forty environments and own their own luxury apartments and ships all equipped with an immersive media streaming entertainment hub.
- Social & Customization – Connect with others in dynamic social hubs, personalize your avatar, and invite your friends to your own luxury apartment and ship.
- Player Portal – Users can access the web-based marketplace to explore content, invite friends,
- Creator Portal – Set up an account, create content channels, and begin monetizing your work immediately. No integration is required, allowing for seamless onboarding and instant access to a global audience.
- Blockchain Integration – The FSTR token, built on the Polygon blockchain, powers the ecosystem, providing secure transactions and exclusive rewards.
- AI-Powered Companions – Coming soon
FSTR: The Utility Token Powering Fourth Star
FSTR serves as the primary ecosystem currency within the Fourth Star platform, enabling users to purchase Apartments, Ships, AI Companions, and exclusive content. Token holders benefit from:
- VIP Access – Exclusive events, early screenings, and red carpet experiences.
- Discounts – 25% savings on in-app purchases (IAPs) and entertainment content.
A New Paradigm in Entertainment
Fourth Star is designed to deliver the future of entertainment through merging cinematic storytelling with interactive gaming, offering:
- A seamless transition from passive to interactive experiences.
- A thriving community for players, creators, and investors.
- Advanced AI integration for interactive AI characters.
- Don’t just watch the star in the movie, become the star.
Availability and Access
Fourth Star is now live and available for users worldwide on Sidequest. Whether you’re an explorer, content creator large to small, storyteller, or entertainment enthusiast, Fourth Star provides an immersive space to experience digital entertainment like never before.
Gaming
10-15% Of Gamers In Florida Show Signs Of Gaming Addiction: Here Are 10 Signs Your Kid Is Suffering From It (And How You Can Help)

Recent studies indicate that 10-15% of young gamers in Florida exhibit signs of gaming addiction. These findings underscore the need for early identification of symptoms to prevent negative impacts on children’s mental and physical health. Gaming addiction, if not dealt with, can lead to poor academic performance, social withdrawal, and even health problems.
Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, CEO of FreezeNova, discusses key indicators of gaming addiction and offers practical advice for parents.
Recognizing Early Signs
“Early recognition of gaming addiction is crucial in preventing long-term negative outcomes,” Marin explains. The following signs can help parents identify if their child might be developing an addiction:
Exhaustion and Irritability
Constant tiredness and grumpiness during the day could indicate late-night gaming sessions interfering with sleep.
Gaming Obsession
If gaming dominates your child’s thoughts and conversations, and they plan their day around it while neglecting other responsibilities, it could be a sign of addiction.
Decline in Academic Performance and Lost Interests
A noticeable decline in academic performance or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities may suggest your child is prioritizing gaming over more important tasks.
Emotional Volatility
Extreme emotional reactions to in-game outcomes, such as uncontrolled anger, known as ‘Gamer Rage’, or intense celebrations, could indicate an unhealthy attachment to gaming.
Physical Strain
Signs of repetitive strain injuries like ‘Gamer’s Thumb’ or ‘Nintendo Neck’ from prolonged screen time are warning signals.
Neglecting Basic Needs
If your child is neglecting basic needs like eating, sleeping, or hygiene to keep playing, gaming has likely taken an unhealthy control over their life.
Creating a Supportive Environment
While video games can be a great source of entertainment and connection, around 70% of people with signs of gaming addiction also experience social disorders. Marin recommends a few tips for building a supportive and open environment for your child.
Teamwork and Setting Boundaries
“Parents and children should work together to create a healthy gaming environment. Gaming addiction requires a holistic approach,” Marin advises. Start by setting clear boundaries on gaming time to ensure there’s room for schoolwork, chores, and quality family time.
Revisit activities your child once loved, like football practice or exploring new hobbies together. It’s vital for your child to take breaks from screens, so create a balanced daily routine that includes homework, chores, exercise and just some gaming time. This allows your child to enjoy their games without neglecting other aspects of their life.
Open Communication
Maintain open communication. Discuss the games your child enjoys and any concerns you might have. By understanding their world, you can work together to find solutions.
Remember, you’re not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, seek professional help from specialists in gaming addiction. Marin concludes, “By working as a team, setting clear boundaries, and fostering open communication, we can help your child develop a healthy relationship with gaming and thrive in all areas of life.”
Gaming
SPGA Announces Social Sweeps Game Sector Video Briefing

-
Latest News2 days ago
Churchill Downs Incorporated Reports 2024 Fourth Quarter and Full Year Results
-
Compliance Updates3 days ago
IBIA establishes innovative Payment Provider Forum to protect the integrity of the sports betting market in Brazil from financial fraud
-
Latest News3 days ago
SportsGrid partners with NEXT.io to capture cover NEXT Summit: New York – North America’s Premier iGaming and Sports Betting Event
-
Compliance Updates6 days ago
CT Interactive Secures Certification for its Top-performing Games to Enter Brazil’s iGaming Market
-
Latest News5 days ago
Less than Two Weeks Left to Enroll in The Transformational Leadership Program
-
Latest News5 days ago
BETBY TO SHOWCASE ENHANCED BET BUILDER VERSION AT SBC SUMMIT RIO
-
Compliance Updates5 days ago
Aristocrat Interactive Secures Approval for OASIS Rollout in Washington
-
Latest News6 days ago
IGT Delivers Upgraded Lottery Solutions to Tennessee Education Lottery with Nine-Year Contract Extension