The Hidden Castle: A Location Based Game For Children
Yu Guo, Hao Meng, Mikkel B. Erichsen, Valentín Salvador, Oscar Salazar
In cooperation with GN Netcom
Spring 2004

The outcome of this project is a game for children that utilize location-based technologies. It was developed in collaboration with IT Product Design and Mechatronic students.

The concept is based on a game that uses wireless headsets and a ring device to play with imaginary worlds in public parks. Audio is employed as a medium to fully describe these worlds to the player. Several game worlds and stories are experienced while the player roams different spots in the park. Each story requires certain interactions from the player.

"The main design objective of this project was to explore how people use their verbal and audio channels to support their daily tasks."

The game is intended to be played in public parks that contain location-based gaming technologies. Players will use wireless headsets and a ring to interact with imaginary characters and objects.

The game is called ëThe hidden castleí and the narrative is based on a Scottish castle. The goal is to find a powerful gem, inherit all its powers and kill the guarding dragon. Several environments exist within the game. These are experienced throughout numerous physical park locations when the player moves.

'The hidden castle' game has been tested several times with 8 and 12 year old children. This has helped the designers develop more children-centered stories for the game.

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