Build the resort of your dreams in Resortico, an HTML5 game coming soon to Facebook

The people behind Resortico, a new resort-building simulation game on Facebook, are happy to announce that not only is there game almost ready for launch, but that since the game is fully built in HTML5, you won't just be restricted to playing the game on your desktop computer or netbook. The game's HTML5 support means you'll be able to play the game anywhere, even on an iPad, without having to download an app specifically built for iOS (think FarmVille on iPhone for a comparison).



So far, the game's Facebook page only has the above teaser trailer, showing us that we'll be able to harvest palm trees (presumably for coconuts), and will be able to built huts, a lobster shack, a set of buildings that appear to be outhouses, and so on. You'll be able to move items on the fly, send items and otherwise interact with your friends, and purchase a premium currency which looks to be called "Shells."

It will definitely be interesting to see how Resortico takes off (or doesn't) once it launches. HTML5 is one of the fastest growing, and most exciting things in game development, in my humble opinion, as it allows players true freedom from traditional gameplay methods, allowing us to play our games whenever, and wherever we want. Who knows, if Resortico is a smashing success, maybe big players like Zynga will follow suit, allowing us to play future games on our iPads without the need for an app. Oh what a great day that will be.

Will you try Resortico once it launches on Facebook, or are you more excited for the potential to play Facebook game on your iPad without downloading apps?

Blizzard hiring web, mobile whiz to improve 'mobile presence' [Updated]

Update: All Blizzard had to say of the open position was this: "[The position] is for our existing team that works on mobile-based enhancements for our games and web services initiatives, including our mobile authenticator and mobile guild chat functionality for World of Warcraft Remote subscribers." Well then, we'll just have to wait and see what Blizzard is up to on the mobile front in the coming months, then.

Blizzard, the infamous creator of the greatest fantasy addiction of all time, World of Warcraft, is looking for a web and mobile savvy project director to "have a vision for what Blizzard Entertainment needs to do to have a successful web and mobile presence." At least that's what the job posting reads. Now, a web and mobile whiz will surely know what's up on mobile devices these days: social media and community.

And Blizzard is already on its way to creating such a community. Just in the past year, the company has released the WoW Armory app for smartphones (a mobile companion to the game in which players can even chat with friends now), and Battle.net 2.0. The latter is a socially-connected, cross-platform communications service for Blizzard fans. Taking a cue from services like Xbox Live, players can chat from across different Blizzard games and even invite players to their games. Wouldn't it be great if the company could stretch that social layer across mobile devices too? Well, it's just a thought. We've contacted Blizzard for comment.

[Image Credit: Blizzard]

What do you think Blizzard might be up to hiring a professional with such specific skills? Are you excited to see what the company brews up?