In this case, we adapted the classic game Space Invaders to raise awareness of environmental issues. It is a simple game to train, and we also have elements that we can configure to explain them from the point of view of environmental conservation.
For the adaptation of the Game with green elements, we try to eliminate those elements that are harmful to the environment. We can further extend these concepts of environmental enemies:
Instead of spaceships, the enemies could be toxic drums, plastics, cans, and other debris that pollute the environment. Each type of enemy could represent a different type of contamination.
Our ship that shoots is a Recycler. We can change and update the image of this recycling ship that is in the hands of the player. This ship would fire recycling beams that disintegrate the waste and, in subsequent levels or further explanation, the waste becomes recyclable materials, explaining the concept of circular economy.
The game can be adapted into images and versions by thematic levels. That is, each level will be set in different ecosystems affected by pollution, such as oceans full of plastics, forests with garbage, cities with waste. As the player progresses, the levels become more challenging, representing the increasing difficulty of cleaning up the environment.
The recycling ship can have special powers, such as a “cleaning beam” that removes all on-screen waste or an “ecological shield” that protects against the most dangerous waste. These are more elements of the game that can be incorporated.
Although it is a classic game, it allows you to address many aspects of environmental awareness:
By viewing and destroying different types of waste, players will learn to identify common pollutants and understand their negative impact on the environment. It is possible to think about giving informative messages between levels, dealing with the importance of recycling, waste reduction and the protection of ecosystems. These messages should include data on how long it takes for certain materials to biodegrade and how they affect wildlife.
Ecological rewards can be raised, where players earn additional points for collecting specific waste and recycling it correctly. These rewards will unlock additional content, and you’ll receive practical tips on how to reduce your ecological footprint in real life.