Augmented actuality recreation raises consciousness of dangerous algae blooms

Eco Resilience Games from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has launched the primary augmented actuality (AR) recreation specializing in the rising difficulty of dangerous algae blooms. Algae Bloom Dynamics makes use of AR know-how to create a stylized photo-realistic, lake-island aquatic ecosystem the place customers stroll across the immersive habitat to find info that may assist discover options to the human behaviors and environmental elements that trigger dangerous algae blooms.

The recreation was developed to be used on cell and pill units.

“Algae blooms are an increasing threat to aquatic ecosystems globally,” mentioned Kathleen Ruiz, director of Eco Resilience Games, and an affiliate professor and one of many co-founders of the Games and Simulation Arts and Sciences program at Rensselaer. “With Algae Bloom Dynamics, we’re using advanced game technology to create a virtual world that inspires us to preserve our actual world.”

Designed for customers aged 4 years and older, this solo-player interactive game can immerse gamers in an aquatic ecosystem. Users level their cell gadget on the augmented reality in entrance of them and stroll across the island as if immersed in an interactive sculpture full with initially composed music and sound, clicking on gadgets to realize info. Moving their cellphone or pill under the water line, customers discover themselves with the fish, zooplankton, and phytoplankton in a crystal-clear, freshwater surroundings. But when the water turns into inexperienced from an algae bloom, gamers should uncover the supply of the issue and discover and implement an answer to return the ecosystem to a wholesome state.

“Games can be an incredibly powerful tool for educating, enlightening, and activating young and old alike,” Ruiz mentioned. “It is our hope is that Algae Bloom Dynamics will enable people of all ages to learn about ecological issues and climate change in an immersive and visceral way that can help them understand the vital need to work together globally for a sustainable future.”

Algae Bloom Dynamics will probably be accessible globally without cost obtain within the Apple iOS App Store and Google Play.

Ruiz will formally launch the game at a launch occasion on Sunday, November 21 starting at 1 p.m. at miSci, the Museum of Innovation and Science, in Schenectady, N.Y. The occasion is open to the general public and is free with admission to the museum. Health and security necessities for guests to the museum embrace facial coverings and social distancing with others not in your group.

Algae Bloom Dynamics is the newest launch from Eco Resilience Games, a transdisciplinary group of Rensselaer college and college students who’re passionate in regards to the surroundings and making a long-lasting impression on rising generations by way of interactive artwork installations, digital actuality, AR, rising genres, and STEAM-education experiences.

Previous releases from Eco Resilience Games embrace The World of Plankton and Flo: The Watershed Project.