Yesterday, Target announced that Facebook Credits gift cards will launch at Target stores nationwide beginning September 5th. Target will be the first brick-and-mortar retailer to carry Facebook Credits gift cards.
While Facebook is free, Facebook Credits are an easy and convenient way for people to buy digital goods in more than 150 popular social games and applications offered by independent developers on Facebook. Target is hoping that the the newly-launched Facebook Credits gift cards will be an ideal stocking stuffer this holiday season for those who enjoy playing social games on Facebook.
“At Target we strive to delight our guests with exciting, new products every day, so we’re thrilled to be the first retailer to sell Facebook Credits gift cards,” said Mark Schindele, senior vice president, merchandising, Target. “With social gaming becoming increasingly popular, Facebook Credits gift cards provide an easy and convenient option for Target guests to purchase virtual goods.”
More than 200 million people play games on Facebook each month. Unlike most traditional games, social games on Facebook are free. Players can elect to purchase virtual goods or enhancements to their game experience. Facebook Credits are accepted by many of the leading games on Facebook, including Zynga’s FarmVille and Mafia Wars; CrowdStar’s Happy Aquarium; PopCap Games’ Bejeweled Blitz; Playdom’s City of Wonder; and EA SPORTS FIFA Superstars from Playfish.
According to Inside Network, Americans will spend more than $1.6 billion in 2010 on virtual goods and social gaming. First offered in May 2009, Facebook Credits is a safe and easy to use virtual currency for games and applications available on Facebook.
