I'm all for video gaming as a method of communicating complex ideas- I was an avid supporter of the fair hearing of Super Columbine Massacre RPG, for instance.
New Media artists are always bringing us new ways of looking at the world. The latest edition? Fatworld.
Fatworld is a sim-style game that takes the player through the complexities of good nutrition, and "explores the relationships between obesity, nutrition, and socioeconomics in the contemporary U.S.". Rather than caving to the usual 'this behaviour = good', 'this behaviour = bad', the game allows the player explore for themselves just how many factors are involved in their nutrition, and the long term results. These factors can include things like age, weight, and genetic pre-disposition. The player chooses what to eat, and what not to, how much exercise, and has to run a restaurant that serves their friends and neighbours.
It's an interesting idea, considering how much the media dictates our view of what constitutes a 'healthy lifestyle'- not too long ago, carbs were evil, now trans-fats are evil etc. etc.
However.
I have yet to try the game (though I intend to), but my first impression is that this game does not look very fun, or even engaging. The text on the website reads very much like it was written by New Media artists passionate about their goal, but as much as I admire their innovation, I do not feel compelled to play the game. It just doesn't sell it for me.
Judging by the trailer, the graphics are slick and simple, and the characters echo the cute, customizable characters on the Wii console system:
It reminds me a lot of a combination of The Sims and Diner Dash. Which does intrigue me. A little.
The inspiration behind this game is solid, but I'll have to give it a test-run to see how well it holds up.
But hey, it's free.
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