The launch of a new Pokémon Go-style game in Edmonton promises to give kids an educational experience as well as exercise.
The mobile game Discovery Agents was launched at the Telus World of Science – Edmonton (TWOSE) Monday morning.
Developers said the game is revolutionizing the way youth relate to the world by providing an interactive and modern way they can see it. The mobile game allows users to learn about the plants and animals they come across as they play, including at TWOSE and Edmonton Valley Zoo.
“It allows people to use their smartphones to follow instructions and clues that we create about the natural world around the science centre and hopefully in the near future we’ll extend it down to the river valley and other natural areas of Edmonton,” TWOSE president and CEO Alan Nursall said.
READ MORE: 29% of Canadian Pokemon Go players say the game is taking over their lives: Ipsos poll
Discovery Agents, an Alberta-based company, said the game bridges the widening gap between nature, activity and education.
“In today’s society, 97 per cent of Grade 4 students play video games. Fifty-six per cent own a mobile phone. Only seven per cent get their daily recommended physical exercise,” Discovery Agents CEO Mary Clark said.
“Discovery Agents uses the technology kids love to encourage outdoor fun and learning.”
READ MORE: University of Alberta to offer certificate in computer game development
The game was launched in partnership with TWOSE, the Edmonton Valley Zoo, Alberta Innovates, and the Alberta government.
“Our team is looking forward to introducing TWOSE’s in-game challenge and we can’t wait to see how the kids react,” TWOSE director of science Jennifer Bawden said.
“Discovery Agents is the perfect integration of science and technology, and a great way to get kids physically active and engaged in their learning.”
Alberta Innovates has provided grant funding to Discovery Agents.
Comments