Jetman (video game)
Jetman is a free online game based on "The Helicopter Game". It was created as a Facebook application by Simeon Dorsey, a graduate of Hortonville High in Appleton, WI. As of 5 January 2007, there are 253,262 daily ACTIVE users that use the application.
Gameplay
Jetman is a simple game where players attempt to navigate a Jetman character through a cave full of obstacles. Clicking and holding the mouse or the spacebar fires the jetpack and lifts the character while releasing lets him fall. The object is to not let any part of Jetman's body touch the obstacles that are created at random from the far right side of the Jetman game screen.
Features
The game features different characters that players can unlock and use by inviting their friends on Facebook to add the application. Beginning January 8, 2008, players will be able to "buy" new characters from the "Jetman Store" using invite points.
Scoreboard
Jetman also features an interactive scoreboard where someone can view how they compare with their friends. The scoreboard is also sortable in personal best score, arena score, and arena wins. Clicking on a friend will bring up the challenge record between each other and other random scores.
Challenge Arena
The Challenge Arena allows players to challenge other players to achieve the best possible score. The player initiating the challenge sets a base score which the second player must beat. If the second player beats the set score the challenge is sent back to the original player. This is known as a volley. If a player cannot beat the set score for that round the challenge is finished with the last player to set the score receiving points for the win.
History
Cease-and-Desist Letter
Recently, a cease-and-desist letter was sent to Dorsey for using copyrighted characters such as Mario and the Yellow Submarine. These characters were removed but were later brought back as redraws of the originals. Nate Schmold provided the redraws of the characters under copyright.
Hacking
At the end of November 2007, several determined hackers discovered how Jetman scores are saved. This information was released to the public which resulted in the game being brought down. A new form of security was established to PReVENT attacks in the future. Simeon worked with other developers to return the game to its original form which was completed November 29, 2007.