Independent game design studio Game Equals Life has announced the upcoming release of its first title, the health education game
The Magi and the Sleeping Star. Targeted at adolescents and adults with type 1 diabetes,
The Magi and the Sleeping Star rewards healthy blood sugar maintenance with in-game abilities and power-ups.
The Magi and the Sleeping Star puts players in the role of a young magic-user who has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. In order to save his kidnapped family and defeat his enemies, the character must maintain a proper blood sugar level throughout his quest.
In order to stress the importance of blood sugar management, Game Equals Life has tied the character's magical abilities directly to his blood sugar level. If the level is too high or too low, the character's attacks become less effective. In some cases, his powers may be completely ineffective until a healthy blood sugar level has been established.
In-game diabetes management involves testing the character's blood sugar, choosing healthy food, and delivering appropriate amounts of insulin. Regular check-ups and extended periods of proper blood sugar management are rewarded with an increase in magical power.
"Since this hero happens to have type 1 diabetes, players must learn to manage the disease in order to be successful," said Game Equals Life president Adam Grantham. "With
MSS we're using the incredible teaching power of play to illustrate that life with type 1 diabetes doesn't have to center around the disease and that good blood sugar management is the key to living a free and healthy life. As someone who's lived with type 1 diabetes for over 15 years, I'm very excited to be working on such an innovative and positive new game.”
