Associated Press - Matt Slagle, 12/12/2007:
Jo Ann Hicks doesn't identify with gamers, but she spends hours online every day playing "Kaneva."
The 41-year-old homemaker likes the shopping-and-partying game -- where she operates a virtual nightclub and hosts parties -- because it helps her interact with people, rather than providing an escape from them like many video games.
Social and gaming networks, once considered polar opposites, are cross-pollinating as online interactions replace prime-time TV and other, more traditional, media experiences. Games like "Kaneva" are attracting players that games like "Super Mario Brothers" never did.
Fans of World of Warcraft now chase a fresh goal. Thanks to a recent tie-up between Fanta and Xbox, gamers can grab special online prizes at no cost.
Trolli has revealed a new line for Warcraft, Diablo, and Forza fans.
20 years of World of Warcraft music is going on tour.
