For the Gamers Out There: Moonbase Alpha

Since I can’t even master Mario Kart, I’ll probably stay clear of NASA’s new online game, Moonbase Alpha, out of fear of crashing the Moon rovers and destroying the lunar colony. But for those of your that enjoy video games, NASA has teamed up with Virtual Heroes to create this new game. Here’s the blurb:

In ‘Moonbase Alpha’, players will step into the role of an exploration team member and will be immersed in a futuristic 3D lunar settlement. Their mission is to restore critical systems and oxygen flow after a nearby meteor strike cripples a solar array and life support equipment. Available resources include an interactive command center, a lunar rover, mobile robotic repair units and a fully stocked equipment shed.

This ‘First Person Explorer’ serious game includes both a single player capability and LAN or internet multiplayer gameplay for up to six active players on a team. Selectable maps will be available for specific player numbers (e.g., 2 player map, 4 player map, etc.). Each of these maps is represented and tracked individually within the game’s leader boards.

Here is where you can download the game.

Here is more info about the game and why NASA developed it.

So, why is NASA spending the time and money on things like online games? Well, one way to look at it is that the space agency is trying to be current, fun and engaging. NASA says, “The game is a proof of concept to show how NASA content can be combined with a cutting edge game engine to inspire, engage and educate students about agency technologies, job opportunities and the future of space exploration.”

Moonbase Alpha is rated “E” for everyone.